The University of Wisconsin-Stout has been recognized for its commitment to supporting veterans and their families, earning a place on the 2025 Best for Vets Colleges list by Military Times. The annual rankings, announced on November 17, placed UW-Stout first in Wisconsin among traditional and online universities, 24th in the Midwest, and 177th nationwide.
“UW-Stout’s continued selection by Military Times as one of their Best for Vets Colleges demonstrates our strong commitment to providing meaningful support to our veteran students. We are proud these graduates continue to achieve high outcomes, with strong employment and career placement rates,” said retired Army Lt. Col. Brian Hackner, the university’s military education benefits coordinator who oversees Veteran Services.
Military Times determines its rankings based primarily on student success indicators. Other factors include the availability of military-specific resources and financial assistance for veteran students. The organization provides independent news and information for service members and their families.
UW-Stout has consistently received recognition for serving veterans and active-duty military personnel. In spring 2025, the university was awarded a silver designation as a Military Friendly School for 2025-26 by G.I. Jobs Magazine—marking the 16th consecutive year it has appeared on that list. This distinction places UW-Stout among only five small public universities in Wisconsin to earn such recognition. The university is also listed as a Military Spouse Friendly School.
As of fall 2025, there were nearly 250 self-identified veteran and military students enrolled at UW-Stout, including those on active duty as well as National Guard and Reserve members. Additionally, another 587 students identified as spouses or dependent children of veterans or military personnel.
According to the university’s most recent First Destination Report from spring 2025, all veteran graduates secured employment within six months after graduation.
Support services at UW-Stout include the Military and Veteran Resource Center (MVRC), which offers resources, programs, and a dedicated space for military-connected students and their families. The MVRC hosts various initiatives such as the Council on Veteran Services, Veterans Club events, mentorship programs tailored to veterans, and peer-to-peer support networks.
Academic offerings specifically designed for military-connected students include an introductory course called Military Benefits 101; a minor in military leadership; degree options that align with many military occupations; and online certificates in project management, organizational performance, strategic leadership, workforce development, and related fields.
The university’s Career Services department helps connect veteran students with employers during biannual career fairs while providing guidance specific to employment challenges faced by veterans.
UW-Stout also provides Army ROTC training through its Northwoods Battalion program as well as Air Force ROTC opportunities via an agreement with University of St. Thomas in St. Paul—a partnership unique among Wisconsin universities—which allows students to enroll in Air Force ROTC courses while completing their degrees at UW-Stout.
For further assistance regarding veteran or military education benefits at UW-Stout, individuals may contact Veteran Services by phone or email.
