University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Urban research university in Milwaukee, known for its strong academics, vibrant student life, and proximity to Bradford Beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Campus buzz and events
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Best Time
Campus buzz and events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Urban research university in Milwaukee, known for its strong academics, vibrant student life, and proximity to Bradford Beach.
"The best universities in Milwaukee, with great teaching and recreational events."
🎯 Connect with Communities
UWM has many student communities; get involved to meet friendly people and be yourself without judgment.
🚴♀️ UREC Adventure Gear
Rent bikes, paddle boats, and hammocks at the UREC for outdoor fun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Student Union Hub
Student Union
The heart of campus life, offering diverse dining options and a space for events, games, and community connection.
University Recreation (UREC)
UREC
Your go-to for active fun! Rent bikes, paddle boats, hammocks, and utilize the large gym with a track.
Bradford Beach Proximity
Near campus
Enjoy the shores of Lake Michigan just a short distance from campus, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Campus Life
Embrace the Milwaukee Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Connect with Communities
UWM has many student communities; get involved to meet friendly people and be yourself without judgment.
🚴♀️ UREC Adventure Gear
Rent bikes, paddle boats, and hammocks at the UREC for outdoor fun.
📚 Advisor Check-ins
Ensure your advisor is knowledgeable to avoid academic and financial pitfalls.
📣 Stay Updated on Events
Check Student Union bulletin boards for flyers about campus events and activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Connect with Communities
UWM has many student communities; get involved to meet friendly people and be yourself without judgment.
🚴♀️ UREC Adventure Gear
Rent bikes, paddle boats, and hammocks at the UREC for outdoor fun.
📚 Advisor Check-ins
Ensure your advisor is knowledgeable to avoid academic and financial pitfalls.
📣 Stay Updated on Events
Check Student Union bulletin boards for flyers about campus events and activities.
🎓 Bid Day Excitement
Experience the energy of Bid Day, a significant event for student organizations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
UWM is praised for its strong academic programs, friendly student community, and excellent recreational facilities. Many appreciate the university's connection to Milwaukee and its vibrant campus life. However, some students have encountered issues with advising staff, highlighting the need for proactive guidance.
"As a dual enrollment student who had experience with both Milwaukee colleges, UWM and MATC. I would highly recommend attending this if you are a incoming University Student. There are so many communities you can get yourself involved in. I am an incoming student and I have met really great people among the weeks i have been visiting campus for my summer experience trip. The people in the community are friendly and you can be yourself without judgement. Some of the areas I would highly suggest is the Student union and UREC. Union for the food and potentially seeing events on flyers on the wall that you are interested or small events held in the union for games, food, etc. As for the UREC, theres so many things you can do such as rent out materials like bikes, paddle boat equipment, hammocks, and much more. Theres a large gym with a track that is open to all students so I would go check that out. Overall, come to the school to expose yourself to the full experience :)"
Kindly Kian
"The best universities in Milwaukee. This was my first choice because of several factors. First thing being the teaching and the students to faculty ratio. And second one being the recreational events and vide range of festivals and stuff. I like this place quite a lot..."
Adi Narayana. Repudi
"I attended UWM for my Masters in Civil Engineering. I've only good things to say about the school. Wonderful professors. Quality of education at least in my department is good. I took one course from Geosciences department and Prof Timothy Grundl was my instructor. He is awesome!
If some students felt, they did not get enough help financially from university, I can understand that as the school went through severe budget cut during 2016-18 period, when I went to school. But, I do hope things will improve.
Long live beer city! Long live Milwaukee!"
MA Bashar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
UWM is an urban campus easily accessible by public transportation in Milwaukee. Several bus routes serve the campus area. For those driving, parking is available, though it can be competitive.
mentions Milwaukee's biking scene, suggesting it's a bike-friendly city.UWM is considered one of the safer schools in Milwaukee. While general urban safety precautions are always advised, the campus environment is generally secure for students.
Walking is ideal for exploring the main campus. For longer distances or to get a feel for the city, consider using local bus services or biking, as Milwaukee is known for its cycling infrastructure.
Yes, UWM has services for international students, including visa support and information sessions.
However, students have also faced visa challenges.UWM has an urban, research-centric feel. It's a large public university with a diverse student body and a strong connection to the city of Milwaukee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As a public university, general access to the campus grounds is free. However, specific events, performances, or athletic games may require tickets. Check individual department or athletics websites for details.
Operating hours vary significantly by facility. The Student Union and UREC have extended hours, while academic buildings follow typical university schedules. It's best to check the specific hours for the facility you plan to visit on the UWM website.
There are no admission fees to simply visit and explore the UWM campus. However, there are application fees for prospective students applying for admission to the university.
Many campus events, such as lectures, performances, and festivals, are open to the public. Some may have a fee, while others are free. Keep an eye on campus event calendars for announcements.
Prospective students can attend information sessions, campus tours, and departmental open houses. The university also hosts virtual events and provides extensive program information on its official website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Student Union for its vibrant atmosphere and dining, and the UREC for recreational activities like renting bikes or using the gym. The proximity to Bradford Beach is also a major plus.
The UREC offers a wide range of activities, including a large gym with a track, and rentals for bikes, paddle boats, and hammocks.
Absolutely! UWM boasts numerous communities and organizations for students to join, fostering a friendly and inclusive campus environment.
Bid Day is a notable event for joining these groups.UWM is a research-centric public university with a good reputation, particularly in departments like Civil Engineering. Professors are often praised for their quality.
The student-faculty ratio is a factor that attracts students to UWM, suggesting a commitment to personalized attention in education.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Student Union is a central hub for dining options, offering a variety of choices to suit different tastes.
While specific details aren't extensively covered, the Student Union is described as having 'food' and 'small events held in the union for games, food, etc.', implying a range of offerings.
Information on specific healthy options is limited, but the variety within the Student Union likely includes some healthier choices. It's recommended to explore the Union's offerings directly.
Given UWM's urban setting in Milwaukee, there are numerous off-campus dining establishments easily accessible from campus. Exploring the surrounding neighborhoods will reveal a wide array of culinary experiences.
Costs can vary depending on the dining venue within the Student Union. As with most university campuses, expect prices to be comparable to other on-campus dining facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The architecture of the campus buildings, the proximity to Bradford Beach with its lake views, and the lively atmosphere of the Student Union offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to take photos on the UWM campus for personal use. For commercial photography or large-scale shoots, it's advisable to check UWM's policies.
While general photography is permitted, be mindful of privacy. Avoid photographing individuals without their consent, especially in private or sensitive areas. Specific buildings or events might have their own photography rules.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for campus exteriors and the nearby beach. Midday can be good for capturing the bustling student life in the Student Union.
Capturing student life and events can add dynamic shots, but always be respectful. If focusing on individuals, asking for permission is a good practice.
shows candid student interactions.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families considering UWM for their children, the university's emphasis on community involvement and diverse student life is a positive aspect. However, prospective students should be aware of the advising staff's varying quality, as mentioned in reviews, and encourage their children to be proactive in seeking guidance.
🎓 Prospective Students
It's highly recommended to engage with academic advisors early and thoroughly to ensure you're on the right track, as experiences with advising staff can differ. Attending information sessions and campus tours can provide valuable insights into specific programs and student life. Don't forget to consider the university's connection to Milwaukee, including its proximity to Bradford Beach, which adds to the overall appeal of the student experience.
✈️ International Students
However, international students should be aware of potential challenges, such as visa issues that have led to protests on campus. It's crucial to stay informed about visa regulations and university policies. Engaging with international student services and seeking advice from fellow students can be beneficial for a smoother transition and a more fulfilling academic journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Student Life and Community
Beyond formal organizations, the campus culture encourages inclusivity and self-expression, with students reporting they can 'be yourself without judgement.' This welcoming atmosphere extends to the university's connection with Milwaukee, allowing students to engage with the broader urban community. The university also has a history of student activism, with protests occurring on campus regarding various social and political issues.
For those seeking recreation, the University Recreation (UREC) center is a significant part of student life. It offers extensive facilities, including a large gym with a track, and rentals for outdoor equipment like bikes and paddle boats, encouraging an active lifestyle among students.
Academic Experience and Support
However, navigating academic support, particularly advising, can be a mixed experience. While some advisors are described as 'wonderful and extremely helpful,' others have been criticized for lacking knowledge and providing insufficient guidance, potentially leading students into incorrect majors. This highlights the importance for students to actively seek out and confirm information with their advisors to ensure they are on the right academic path and to avoid wasting time and resources.
For international students, UWM offers support services, including information sessions and visa assistance. However, it's also important to be aware of potential challenges, such as visa terminations that have led to student protests. The university has also faced budget cuts in the past, which may have impacted financial aid availability for some students.
Campus Location and Surroundings
Being an urban campus means UWM is well-integrated with the city of Milwaukee. This offers students opportunities to engage with the local community, explore diverse neighborhoods, and access a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. The city itself is known for its vibrant atmosphere, contributing to the overall student experience. mentions Milwaukee's biking scene, suggesting a city that encourages outdoor activity.
The university's urban setting also means it's accessible via public transportation, making it easier for students and visitors to navigate the city and reach campus. This connectivity enhances the overall accessibility and appeal of UWM as a place to study and live.
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