UW-Whitewater recognized nationally among the Colleges of Distinction

September 20, 2021

For the fifth consecutive year, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater has been recognized as one of the best universities in the country by Colleges of Distinction.

This national honor calls attention to institutions whose primary goals are based on student success and satisfaction, and those with a commitment to engaged, hands-on education.

“At UW-Whitewater, students receive a world-class education at an exceptional value, and that starts with our outstanding faculty who are deeply committed to high-quality course instruction,” said Jim Henderson, interim chancellor. “Faculty and staff introduce students to opportunities that elevate their education even further, such as undergraduate research and coveted internships. Student health, safety and success are top priorities.”

In addition to the overall badge of distinction, UW-Whitewater earned additional distinctions for its business and education programs, career development, and for equity and inclusion.

“UW-Whitewater is home to the largest accredited business school in Wisconsin and prepares more new teachers for licensure than any university in the state,” said John Chenoweth, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “Employers regularly praise our graduates for their career readiness and broad skill sets, and our outcomes attest to that fact — 99% of recent students were employed or enrolled in graduate school within one year of graduation.”

Part of UW-Whitewater’s mission is to serve as a campus of access — supporting students from a variety of backgrounds through dedicated programming like free tutoring. Approximately 37% of undergraduates are the first in their family to pursue a college degree, and more than 1,100 receive services of the nationally recognized Center for Students with Disabilities.

Colleges of Distinction’s selection process comprises a sequence of in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools about each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, career development, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more—and accepting only those that adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. These principles are all informed by the High-Impact Practices to prioritize the ways that institutions enable students to have a fulfilling, individualized college experience.