Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Stout has reported an increase in enrollment across all major categories for the 2025-26 academic year, distinguishing itself among the state’s public universities. The university estimates a total enrollment of 7,047 students for the fall semester, marking a 2% rise compared to fall 2024. This places UW-Stout among the top five in overall growth within the Universities of Wisconsin system, based on preliminary Day One figures.

Chancellor Katherine Frank highlighted the university’s strategic efforts to expand enrollment and emphasized its focus on applied learning and industry partnerships. “UW-Stout has been very intentional in our work connected with enrollment,” Frank said. “We are delighted to see the increase in our student population and that our stakeholders are recognizing the value of the polytechnic education we offer here at UW-Stout.”

The number of first-year students grew by 6.3% from last year, reaching approximately 1,273 freshmen at the start of classes. Brian Weber, director of admissions, attributed this growth to increased recognition of UW-Stout’s educational approach: “A UW-Stout education continues to grow in appeal,” Weber said. “We hear it from our proud alumni all the time, and future students and families are taking note that the student experience at UW-Stout will set them up for long-term success. With an increase of new freshman of more than 6%, including increases in Wisconsin residents, more students are saying yes to a polytechnic education. For many students choosing UW-Stout, opportunities to apply learning on campus and through industry collaborations are top of mind – they want to make sure they’re preparing well for life after college, and we plan to support them in that.”

Recent data from the First Destination Report indicates that 99% of graduates were employed or pursuing further education within six months after graduation between fall 2023 and summer 2024. Undergraduate degree recipients reported average starting salaries of $57,000—the highest among regional universities—while graduate degree holders averaged $74,000.

Transfer student enrollment also saw notable growth with an 8% increase over last year following a previous rise of 16%. Meridith Wentz, vice chancellor for enrollment and quality, pointed out several initiatives aimed at supporting transfer students: “Growth of transfer students is one of the key initiatives in our strategic enrollment plan,” Wentz explained. She cited expanded articulation agreements with other institutions, faster admissions processes, and outreach efforts as contributing factors.

Weber added: “We very intentionally ramped up support for transfer students through additional staffing to include faster responses and more flexibility for students. When transfer students work with our team, they know they will quickly get the answers and help that they need.”

Preliminary figures for all public universities in Wisconsin were released on September 9; final numbers based on enrollments as of the tenth day of classes will be available later this fall.