College Prep 101

    Choosing the right school is personal—and sometimes stressful. We offer tips on how to stand out in the admissions process.

     
    SECONDARY EDUCATION
     

    Academy of Holy Angels

    Total enrollment: 765

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? Application, essay, two teacher recommendation forms, 7th and 8th grade transcript and in most cases a placement test.

    How can a high school student best prepare for college-level work? We suggest taking rigorous courses that challenge the student at his/her own level, particularly in the areas of math and science. Students who take Advanced Placement courses in any content area in high school have been shown to do better in college. Twenty-first century learning skills go beyond traditional curriculum. Students need strong organizational, listening, speaking, writing, teamwork and technology skills for college.

    How do you differ from other schools? AHA is a 2008 MN Quality Award Winner, Advancement Level. We are a laptop school, and our Faith in Action program draws students who participate in activities into prayer and service to others.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? Since 1650, our founders—the Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet—have been rooted in a tradition of meeting the unmet needs of the times. Today, that tradition serves the Academy of Holy Angels well.

    Our students are… confident, prepared, connected in faith.

    6600 Nicollet Ave. S., Richfield, 612-798-2600, www.ahastars.org
     


    Breck School

    Total enrollment: 1,200 students

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? We’re looking for intellectually curious students who will both contribute to and benefit from being members of the Breck community.

    How do you differ from other schools? For more than 120 years, Breck has been unwaveringly committed to the highest standards of academic rigor, opportunities for students to develop their unique talents and interests, the development of spiritual and moral values, and being a welcoming, inclusive community.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? One big reason is our amazing faculty: lifelong learners who are supported by one of the nation’s leading professional development programs. Breck teachers have numerous opportunities to recharge and re-energize through travel, study and pursuing projects of both professional and personal interest.

    Our students are… critical thinkers, talented performers and responsible citizens who leave Breck prepared to make their communities and the world a better place.

    Would you like to add anything else? Our application deadline is February 1, 2010.

    123 Ottawa Ave. N., Mpls., MN 763-381-8100, www.breckschool.org
     


    Hill-Murray School

    Total enrollment: 900 students in grades 7-12

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? Our mission is to provide an excellent Catholic educational program to students of all faiths. In keeping with the mission, our criteria for acceptance are modest. We are proud that while our students represent a wide diversity of abilities, almost all (approximately 95 percent) leave Hill-Murray to go on to a college or university, prepared and ready for the next educational challenges.

    How do you differ from other schools? Hill-Murray is one of only two high schools (public or private) in the metro area cited by the ACT in its report, “Rigor at Risk: Reaffirming Quality in the High School Core Curriculum” for its academic rigor, “as a leader in preparing high school students for postsecondary education.” Only eight schools in Minnesota were cited and only 382 across the entire approximately 15,000 high schools nationwide. Beyond the core rigor in math, science, English, and social studies, Hill-Murray has outstanding programs in find arts, including an Artist-in-Residence and an award winning theatre program; service programming; and religious studies. We encourage students to: learn to access information, process it critically, and communicate it clearly; discover their intellectual and creative potential; explore and develop their faith; and learn balance between work, prayer, and leisure.

    2625 Larpenteur Ave., Maplewood, MN, 651-777-1376, www.hill-murray.org
     


    International School of Minnesota

    Total enrollment: Preschool – grade 12 is approximately 600, 200 of whom are Upper School students (Grades 6 -12). A typical graduating class is around 25 seniors.

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? To initiate the admissions process, the School must receive a completed application form and the $75 non-refundable application fee. There is no application deadline, but it is recommended that the admissions process be initiated in late fall or early winter for the next school year. Applications are accepted year-round; students are enrolled on a space-available basis.

    How can a high school student best prepare for college-level work? By focusing on academics, but also participating in extracurricular activities.

    How do you differ from other schools? The world-renowned SABIS® Educational System is what sets ISM apart from other schools. SABIS® offers students a carefully planned, sequential, and rigorous college-preparatory curriculum based on over 125 years of international “best practices.” This unique educational system tends to attract an extensive breadth and depth of students and families of different cultures, religions, languages, and perspectives.
    Little known fact about ISM: We offer exceptional art, music, drama and sports programs (including sailing and crewing).

    6385 Beach Rd., Eden Prairie, MN 952-918-1840, www.ism-sabis.net
     


    Minnehaha Academy

    Total enrollment: 1,076 students pre-k through grade 12. Our student-teacher ratio is 12:1.

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? We seek to admit motivated students who are committed to developing their academic potential, while growing in their character and faith. The admission process includes a review of academic records, teacher comments, testing results, and an admission interview.

    How do you differ from other schools? We are committed to academic excellence, while integrating faith and learning. Teachers meet weekly to pray for the students and discuss their academic progress. Also, at the end of each academic year, students in grades 9 – 11 participate in a weeklong learning experience called June Term. Students are exposed to different people and communities to promote an understanding of another person’s life experiences and point of view.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? Our faculty consists of strong role models and gifted subject-matter experts who incorporate a variety of instructional methods and strategies to meet the teaching and learning goals of students.

    Our students… come from many different backgrounds and are willing to work hard to get a good education. They are well rounded, motivated students who get involved in a variety of activities, preparing them to become the next generation of leaders.

    3100 West River Parkway, Mpls., MN 612-728-7756, www.MinnehahaAcademy.net
     


    Minnetonka Public Schools #276

    Total enrollment: 8,400 students in grades K-12. In addition, our birth-to-5 Early Childhood Family Education Program serves families and children during the most critical early developmental years.

    How can a high school student best prepare for college level work? Colleges are looking for students who have made the most of high school by challenging themselves with rigorous coursework (Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate), team or group activities, and service and leadership experiences. Research is clear that students who enroll in AP or IB courses are more likely to complete their college education, so Minnetonka students are encouraged to enroll in at least one AP or IB course. Applicants who demonstrate passion, persistence, a dedication to learning, and global awareness have characteristics that are welcomed by colleges.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? In the last few years, student achievement has soared and Minnetonka now ranks among America’s Top High Schools (Newsweek Magazine). A school-record 15 students were named National Merit Semifinalists, with 24 Commended students in 2008.
    Would you like to add anything else? Community support for dedicated technology funding has allowed Minnetonka to become a national leader in using technology as an accelerator of learning. The District has earned national awards for technology integration.

    952-401-5000, www.minnetonka.k12.mn.us
     


    Park Center Senior High School

    Total enrollment: Park Center Senior High: 1,400 students, grades 10-12; ISD 279: 21,000 students, grades K-12.

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? Park Center Senior High is a public high school open to all students. Once enrolled, students self-select to enroll in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Students residing in one of the seven member districts of the Northwest Suburban Integration School District may be eligible for free transportation to Park Center. Contact the Enrollment Center at 763-585-7350 for more information.

    How can a high school student best prepare for college-level work? The International Baccalaureate Programme provides excellent college preparation through a challenging program of international education and rigorous assessment. In addition to coursework, IB students are required to take part in co-curricular and/or service activities.

    How do you differ from other schools? Students experience the global community every day and are challenged to approach issues from multiple perspectives. Our student body is diverse; the IB Programme promotes intercultural understanding and equips students to collaborate with people from other cultures; and our learning environment cultivates a close community among students and staff.

    Our students are… prepared for success.

    7300 Brooklyn Blvd., Brooklyn Park, 763-569-7600, www.district279.org
     

     

    COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
     

    The Art Institutes International Minnesota

    Total enrollment: 1,974

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? During the application process, potential students are required to fill out an application, submit former transcripts, write an essay, and participate in an admissions interview.

    How can a high school student best prepare for college-level work? Students should understand what they are looking for in a career when selecting a college, and not choose a school just because their friends are going there.

    How do you differ from other schools? Our courses are taught by working industry professionals. We provide smaller classrooms, hands-on instruction, and opportunities to work with actual clients on projects that help build skill sets and add to a student’s working portfolio.

    Our students are… creative, competitive, and open to new ideas. They place great value on an education that prepares them for a challenging career and a lifetime of personal and professional opportunity.

    Would you like to add anything else? The Art Institutes International Minnesota also has a student-run dining lab (restaurant) called the Gourmet Gallery. The Gourmet Gallery is open to the public Mondays – Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit http://aim.aiiresources.com/ggmenu.

    15 S. 9th St., Mpls., MN, 800-777-3643, www.artinstitutes.edu/minneapolis
     


    Concordia College, Moorhead

    Total enrollment: 2,811

    How do you differ from other schools? Concordia students benefit from a globally-focused curriculum featuring an emphasis on experiential learning. A recipient of the Sen. Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization (by NAFSA), the College typically ranks in the nation’s top 10 for number of students studying abroad. Program distinction in international education, music and the sciences—including an 88 percent medical school acceptance rate—help define Concordia’s outstanding academic reputation.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? In addition to providing significant technology infrastructure upgrades throughout campus, we are focused on enhancing academic program distinction in ways that will best serve our graduates in the 21st century. The new Concordia College School of Business is a prime example, featuring a dynamic blend of liberal arts learning and globally immersive business education. New programs in Chinese, neuroscience and museum studies are also among the latest examples of how Concordia is growing its academic strength with timely relevance.

    Our students are… immersed in a “real world” learning environment—through a wide variety of academic and co-curricular experiences—that foster greater understanding and empathy for others.

    901 S. 8th St., Moorhead, MN, 800-699-9897/218-299-3004, www.cord.edu
     


    Gustavus Adolphus College

    Total enrollment: 2,456

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? The Gustavus Adolphus College has a holistic approach to admission, which means all of the information in a student’s application—not simply “the numbers”—is evaluated. A student’s coursework is the most important component when making an admission decision, followed by GPA, experiences outside the classroom, writing ability, and recommendations. Submitting ACT or SAT scores is optional.

    How do you differ from other schools? Gustavus is one of the best liberal arts colleges in the nation, according to widely accepted academic measures like four-year graduation rate (80 percent), average class size (15), average incoming students’ academic ability (3.7 GPA, 27 ACT), and career placement (98 percent situated within six months of graduation). Beyond the statistics, Gustavus alumni live as citizens who lead and serve with uncommon passion and purpose.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? Gustavus invests in its students, faculty, and staff through ongoing development of curricula (especially interdisciplinary studies), equipment, and programs.

    Our students are… interested and interesting, academic yet unpretentious, honest and fun, athletic, and always looking out for the common good. Gusties make their lives count.

    800 West College Ave., St. Peter 507-933-8000, www.gustavus.edu
     


    Luther College

    Total enrollment: 2,500

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? Admissions counselors view all parts of a student’s application, including grades, class level, involvement, ACT/SAT scores, and leadership roles. The most recent class entered Luther with an average ACT score slightly above 26, with 50 percent of students’ scores between 23 and 29.

    How do you differ from other schools? Luther College is an active place. Students are involved in over 140 different college organizations and activities, providing limitless opportunities to our 2,500 students. Before graduation, more than 80 percent of our students will have studied abroad. Luther students share a common bonding experience in the form of Paideia (Greek for “education”), a year-long interdisciplinary course required of all first-year students.

    Our students are… involved. With an average class size of 20, students are very involved in the classroom—small-group work, class participation and discussion, and constant student-professor interaction is the norm at Luther. At the same time, students stay busy with more than just coursework. Nearly 30 percent of our students participate in intercollegiate athletics; over one-third take part in music ensembles; and over 90 percent of the student body are involved in co-curricular activities.

    700 College Drive, Decorah, IA 800-4 LUTHER, www.luther.edu
     


    McNally Smith College of Music

    Total enrollment: 600 students and 100 faculty

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? McNally Smith is looking for students who have a strong aptitude and potential for success in our college and in the music industry. Instead of using test and grade point cut-offs, we look at more than just the GPA and ACT/SAT score when making our admissions decisions.

    How do you differ from other schools? An accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music, McNally Smith College of Music offers music degrees and programs in Music Performance, Recording Technology, Music Business, Hip-Hop Studies, and Composition & Songwriting. With over 500 students and an 80-member faculty, McNally Smith College of Music students get a personalized music education, with wide access to current music technology, music research tools, and music performance facilities. McNally Smith alumni are working all over the world.

    Our mission: McNally Smith College of Music prepares students for a fulfilling future in the global music industry by providing a culture of learning that enables them to reach their creative, intellectual and personal potential, and enriches our society through their artistry and leadership. We prepare students to engage, adapt, and thrive as leaders of change in music and society.

    19 Exchange Street E., St. Paul, 651-291-0177, www.mcnallysmith.edu
     


    Northland College

    Total enrollment: Approximately 700

    How do you differ from other schools? Our environmental mission is a part of every academic program, from business to biology to outdoor education. Our educational experience is greatly enhanced by our naturally beautiful location and a deep commitment to not just talking about environmental concern, but acting on this commitment on a daily basis. Northland College offers each student a unique educational experience from faculty who really care.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? Northland has been an environmental liberal arts college since 1971. Over the years, we have made changes to our program to consistently offer classes that are innovative and relevant. To maintain our leadership, Northland College faculty have performed a complete review of our curriculum to ensure that we are preparing students to respond to today’s issues. In Fall 2009, we introduced new programs and enhanced others to better address the ever-changing environmental issues facing our world.

    Our students… choose to attend Northland because of two reasons—our environmental mission and our location. Students like the ability to study environmental issues in the classroom as well as out in the natural world.

    1411 Ellis Ave., Ashland, WI, 1-800-753-1840, www.northland.edu
     


    St. Cloud State University

    Total enrollment: Approximately 17,000

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? Applicants who rank in the upper one-half (top 50 percent) of their high school class are assured of admission as long as space remains available. Other applicants will be individually reviewed, in which case the admissions committee looks closely at students’ high school performance, their ACT or SAT scores, and high school and community activities. Students are eligible for admission as transfer students if they have earned 12 or more college-level credits with at least a 2.0 GPA.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? We offer the advantages of a large university (city life, more than 200 programs, topnotch faculty), but in a smaller, more personal setting that provides good value.

    What one comment do you hear over and over again about why students choose to attend your school? The wide range of academic offerings— we have more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs.

    Would you like to add anything else? Within Minnesota’s state university system, St. Cloud State offers the only programs in meteorology, land surveying and mapping, real estate, insurance, radiologic technology and Chicano/Chicana studies. Unique master’s degree programs include applied economics, criminal justice, physical education instruction, social responsibility, exercise science, sports management, and travel and tourism.

    720 Fourth Ave. S., St. Cloud, MN, 877-654-7278, www.stcloudstate.edu
     

     

    Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

    Total enrollment: 1,404 (undergraduate)

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? The pattern of high school college preparatory courses and performance, while not the sole criterion for acceptance, is of primary importance. Rank in class, test scores, activities, and school recommendations all provide additional data used in the evaluation of a student’s academic potential for university success. In some cases, the applicant may be required to have an interview with faculty and compose an essay.

    How is your school distinctive? We offer small class sizes, personal attention from professors, and the opportunity to engage with your peers. Students can choose from 60 majors, 32 minors and six pre-professional programs, participate in athletics, arts, music, and theatre, volunteer in the community, and take part in many other activities that enhance classroom learning.

    About our small class sizes: At Saint Mary’s University, there is a student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1. One of the reasons students choose Saint Mary’s is because most class sizes are under 20, resulting in better opportunities to know professors and to participate in class discussions. The value of small undergraduate classes to alumni was investigated by the Minnesota Private College Research Foundation. Findings from Comparing Results 2004: Alumni Perspectives on College (PDF) highlight the importance of small class size, with 90 percent of graduates indicating that they benefited from small classes. It’s easier to learn from others in a small class, and easier for students to help others learn in small group settings with professors. It’s like having a community in the classroom.

    What is your school best known for? An affordable, hands-on, liberal arts education in a scenic location.

    Our students are… active and involved. They’re bright, committed to service and learning, and really enjoy the fun and casual campus at Saint Mary’s University.

    700 Terrace Heights, Winona, MN, 507-452-4430, www.smumn.edu
     


    Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs

    Total enrollment: For the graduate and professional programs – 4,300 at our various campuses and centers and around the state.

    Average class size: 15 students

    Our mission: In the Lasallian spirit of faith and zeal, Saint Mary’s University—a global and diverse learning community—serves students through relevant and innovative educational programs, experiences, and enterprises. The university is nourished by its Catholic intellectual, moral, and cultural traditions and is inspired by excellence in teaching as modeled by Saint John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. The hallmark of the university is its commitment to serve the needs of individual learners and promote life-long learning

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? The criteria for each program is on the program web page.

    What are your most popular programs? MBA, M.A. in education, M.S. in project management, bachelor completion degrees for adults, B.S. in nursing.
    How do you differ from other schools? Saint Mary’s Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs seeks to provide personal, ethical, and professional education for adult learners. Our mission is accessibility for all learners, with an emphasis on relevant education—lessons and activities that they can really use in their professional lives. Our tuition is competitive, offering an excellent value for a great investment.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? We are constantly assessing the needs of our students, adding new programs to fit changing career needs, and updating programs to better serve learners.

    Our students are… diverse, experienced in the workplace, ready to learn!

    www.sm.umn.edu
    Locations: Twin Cities, Winona, Rochester, Apple Valley & Minnetonka.Courses are also offered in greater Minnesota and Wisconsin.
     


    University of Minnesota Crookston

    Total enrollment: 1,310 undergraduates (Fall 2009)

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? The U of M, Crookston operates under a regular admissions program looking at high school coursework, a GPA of 2.0 or higher preferred, minimum ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 980 or higher preferred. Students who do not meet the minimum requirements will be referred to the Admissions Committee. Freshman merit scholarship eligibility begins with a 3.25 GPA and 21+ ACT score. Higher GPAs and ACT scores result in eligibility for larger scholarship amounts.

    How do you differ from other schools? UMC is the original “Laptop University,” providing a powerful notebook computer to each student as part of the educational experience. All degree programs involve internships, and undergraduate research opportunities allow students to work with faculty on various projects.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? The U of M, Crookston strives to keep students connected to the most recent technologies. With a large international student population—including students from more than 20 countries—and many opportunities to study abroad, the campus also has a strong focus on global perspectives.

    Our students are… involved. From taking part in numerous service learning opportunities, to active participation in more than 40 student organizations, to undergraduate research opportunities, to NCAA Division II Athletics, students have every opportunity to become leaders and gain the most from their educational experience.

    Would you like to add anything else? New bachelor’s degree programs in communication, criminal justice, marketing, organizational psychology, and quality management offer students more educational opportunities than ever before. Six degree programs are also available entirely online.

    2900 University Ave., Crookston, 1-800-UMC-MINN (862-6466), www.crk.umn.edu
     


    University of Minnesota Duluth

    Total enrollment: 11, 666

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? Class rank, ACT/SAT scores, and academic course selection are the primary considerations. GPA trend, overall preparation and persistence are secondary considerations.

    How can a high school student best prepare for college-level work? Follow a rigorous college preparatory curriculum; establish an academic record and achieve standardized college entrance exam scores that demonstrate academic achievement, college readiness, development of study skills, and mastery of college-prep and/or college level course material.

    How do you differ from other schools? UMD is a national leader in—and receives an unusually high level of funding for—undergraduate research. For those who don’t want to brave the elements on below-zero days, our campus buildings are almost completely connected by indoor concourses.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? Our academic programs, teaching tools and technologies are continually changing to meet the demands of a global society.

    Additional facts:
    • UMD offers a balanced and competitive athletic program. The Bulldogs compete in seven men’s and nine women’s varsity sports as members of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference and the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. Nationally, UMD belongs to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and competes at the Division II level, except for Division I men’s and women’s hockey.
    • Every year, UMD’s School of Fine Arts offers a cornucopia of cultural events.
    • UMD offers graduate programs in 24 different fields with four cooperative programs through the Minneapolis campus.

    Our students are… attending a great University on a great lake.

    1049 University Drive, Duluth, MN, 218-726-8000, www.d.umn.edu
     


    University of Minnesota Morris

    Total enrollment: 1,705 undergraduate

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? At Morris, student applications are reviewed through a holistic method that allows multiple aspects of a student to be reviewed and considered. We like to see applicants with good academic preparation who are well rounded through involvement in extracurricular and leadership activities. We love to see students who have challenged themselves academically and who have enriched their school and community around them through their talents and involvement.

    How can a high school student best prepare for college-level work? Be involved in your school or community—some students choose to do many things, others choose to do a few things very well. Don’t be afraid to branch out or try new things—this is truly the time to reinvent yourself.

    How do you differ from other schools? The University of Minnesota, Morris provides students with a renewable, sustainable education. The liberal arts creates the renewability and sustainability—the forever—of a Morris education. Engagement in a full range of core subjects—writing, foreign language, science, history, art, social sciences, and courses in diversity—form the framework of a Morris education. Our students are exposed to ideas, information, and ways of thinking that expand their minds and lives.

    How do you keep your competitive edge? The University of Minnesota, Morris offers a private school education and experience at a public school price. Whether students pursue graduate/professional school or a job, they’re ready to master what’s next. Just as important, Morris graduates leave with one of the smallest debt loads in the Midwest, according to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. A Morris education is remarkable and bankable.

    Morris students are… authentic, determined, open-minded, eclectic, accepting, and outspoken.

    600 East Fourth St., Morris, MN, 1-888-UMM-EDUC, www.morris.umn.edu
     


    University of St. Thomas

    Total enrollment: 10,851 total (Fall 2009 – 6,146 undergraduate and 4,705 graduate)

    What are your criteria for accepting applications? At the undergraduate level, we do a thorough and holistic review of a candidate’s application for admission. We pay close attention to the student’s academic record (cumulative grade point average, ACT Composite Score and individual sub-scores and/or SAT scores and rank in class.) We also pay close attention to the student’s contributions made to school, community and church. We are looking for well-rounded individuals who would add to the St. Thomas community in a variety of ways. We also read the essay or writing sample submitted to learn about the student and to make some assessment of their ability to communicate. While we do not require recommendations, if they are submitted they are read in an effort to learn more about the candidate for admission. For graduate applications, each graduate program, school or college has its own admission processes and requirements that fit its purpose and goals for student enrollment.

    Our mission: Inspired by Catholic intellectual tradition, the University of St. Thomas educates students to be morally responsible leaders who think critically, act wisely and work skillfully to advance the common good.

    How do you differ from other schools? Because of its tradition of student-centered experiences, St. Thomas offers an intimate, small-college feeling while providing an education that benefits from a larger university structure. Undergraduate students can participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as athletics, campus ministry or student government, which only broadens their experience while at St. Thomas. Graduate students also benefit from a university that seeks to foster the ‘whole-student’ experience. Service time spent dedicated to the community and taking the opportunity to travel abroad are only two of the ways graduate students can participate with the wider society.

    2115 Summit Ave., St. Paul, MN 651-962-5000, www.stthomas.edu
     


    University of Wisconsin Stout

    Total enrollment: 8,811 (Fall 2008)

    What is a polytechnic university? There is no universal definition, but most of the polytechnic universities in the United States today share characteristics. They are comprehensive universities that offer professional, career-focused programs in the arts, social and related sciences, engineering, education, natural sciences and technology. Polytechnic universities also engage students in active, applied learning, theory and research.

    How do you differ from other schools? We are a comprehensive, career-focused polytechnic university where students, faculty and staff use applied learning, scientific theory and research to solve real-world problems, grow the state’s economy and serve society. UW-Stout has a long and rich history of providing a distinctive array of programs that produce graduates who are prized in the marketplace. Many students come for a particular program that isn’t available anywhere else in the UW System. More than half of the current programs at UW-Stout are only offered here. We have developed world-class programs in many areas and are attracting topnotch professors to teach in those areas. Year in and year out, well over 90 percent of our students are employed a year after graduation, and most of them work in their field of study.

    Additional facts: We offer more than 120 recognized professional, academic, service and social organizations, an intramural sports program, The Stoutonia student newspaper, and an active residence hall organization. • Many students come to UW-Stout because they want to learn in a digital environment. When an undergraduate steps on campus, he or she is handed a laptop computer, which will be replaced after two years. The laptop will become a key tool in their educational experience. UW-Stout has wireless access all over campus, and our professors integrate technology in the way they teach. UW-Stout’s classrooms have the most modern technology and media capabilities.

    Menomonie, WI 54751, 715-232-1122, www.uwstout.edu