University of Wisconsin-River Falls
River Falls, United States
University of Wisconsin–River Falls
River Falls, United States
Founded
1874
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
5,200+
Acceptance Rate
82%
Discover the University of Wisconsin–River Falls
Discover the University of Wisconsin–River Falls
The University of Wisconsin–River Falls (UWRF) is a public comprehensive university and one of 13 institutions in the University of Wisconsin System. Located in the scenic St. Croix River valley on the banks of the Kinnickinnic River, UWRF offers over 70 areas of academic study across undergraduate and graduate programs.
Founded in 1874 as the fourth State Normal School in Wisconsin, UWRF has evolved from a teacher-training institution into a four-year university offering programs in agriculture, arts, sciences, business, and education. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, holding a STARS Gold rating.
UWRF serves a diverse student body with approximately 55% from Wisconsin and 41% from neighboring Minnesota, maintaining an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of 22. The university's mission is to prepare students to be productive, creative, ethical, and engaged leaders with a global perspective.
Key Milestones
- 1874: Founded as River Falls State Normal School, the fourth state normal school in Wisconsin and the first in the northwestern part of the state.
- 1912: The Department of Agriculture was established, laying the groundwork for what would become the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences.
- 1964: Renamed Wisconsin State University–River Falls when state colleges were granted university status; graduate programs were introduced.
- 1971: Joined the University of Wisconsin System when the former UW and Wisconsin State University systems merged, becoming UW–River Falls.
Academic Colleges and Programs at UW–River Falls
Academic Colleges and Programs at UW–River Falls
UW–River Falls organizes its academic offerings across three primary colleges, providing more than 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university emphasizes hands-on learning, undergraduate research, and practical career preparation across all disciplines.
College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences (CAFES)
One of UWRF's signature colleges, CAFES offers programs in agriculture, food science, and environmental stewardship. Students benefit from two laboratory farms and state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities for hands-on learning.
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Business
- Environmental Science
College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences provides a broad liberal arts foundation with programs spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills applicable to diverse careers.
- Biology
- Psychology
- Communication Studies
College of Education, Business and Allied Health
Building on UWRF's historic roots in teacher preparation, this college offers programs in education, business, and health sciences. Students gain real-world experience through student teaching, internships, and clinical placements.
- Elementary Education
- Business Administration
- Health and Human Performance
Graduate Studies
UWRF offers graduate-level programs designed for working professionals and those seeking advanced knowledge. Programs include options in education, counseling, and data analytics with flexible scheduling.
- Master of Science in Education
- Master of Science in Data Analytics
- School Counseling
STEM Programs
UWRF produces the third highest percentage of STEM graduates in the UW System. Programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics prepare students for careers in rapidly growing industries.
- Biotechnology
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
Continuing Education and Outreach
UWRF provides flexible learning opportunities through online courses, dual credit programs for high school students, and continuing education for adult learners seeking professional development or degree completion.
- Online Degree Completion
- Dual Academic Credit Program
- Professional Development Certificates
Admission Requirements for UW–River Falls
Admission Requirements for UW–River Falls
Undergraduate Admission
- High School GPAAverage admitted GPA of 3.44 on a 4.0 scale
- ACT/SAT ScoresTest-optional; average ACT 22, middle 50% range 19-25
- High School RankRequired; 69% of freshmen in top half of class
- College Prep CoursesRequired; standard college preparatory curriculum
- Application FeeFree to apply (USD 0)
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRequired from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPATypically 2.75 or higher (varies by program)
- Standardized TestsGRE may be required depending on program
- Letters of RecommendationTypically 2-3 professional or academic references
- Statement of PurposeRequired for most graduate programs
UW–River Falls uses rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received throughout the year.
Most institutional scholarships have a February 1 deadline. Apply early for the best chance at merit-based awards.
Graduate program deadlines vary by department. Check with individual programs for specific application dates.
The highly selective Falcon Scholars Scholarship application is due in January each year for incoming first-year students.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships at UW–River Falls
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships at UW–River Falls
UW–River Falls offers an affordable education with tuition rates well below national averages for public universities. Minnesota residents may qualify for tuition reciprocity, paying rates comparable to a similar Minnesota institution.
| Cost Category | Wisconsin Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition & Fees | USD 9,008 | USD 17,470 |
| Graduate Tuition & Fees | USD 10,357 | USD 20,312 |
| Room & Board (On-Campus) | USD 11,792 | USD 11,792 |
| Books & Supplies | USD 450 | USD 450 |
| Total | USD 21,250 | USD 29,712 |
SOAR Achievement Guaranteed Scholarships
Automatic merit-based awards for incoming students with no separate application required. Awards are based on cumulative high school GPA at the time of admission.
- 3.3 GPA Award: USD 1,000 per year
- 3.75 GPA Award: USD 1,500 per year
- 4.0 GPA Award: USD 2,000 per year
Falcon Scholars Scholarship
A highly selective four-year renewable scholarship for eligible first-year students, with approximately 60 recipients each year. Includes an additional stipend for study abroad or undergraduate research.
- Annual Award: USD 1,000 per year (renewable for 4 years)
- Study Abroad Stipend: Up to USD 2,000
- Application Deadline: January each year
Campus and Facilities at UW–River Falls
Campus and Facilities at UW–River Falls
The UW–River Falls campus spans 303 acres along the Kinnickinnic River in the scenic St. Croix River valley. The university features 32 major buildings, two laboratory farms, and a total of 440 acres of land for academic and agricultural use.
Built in 1898, South Hall is the oldest building on campus and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The campus library offers research materials, quiet study areas, group meeting rooms, 24-hour laptop rentals, and the Academic Success Center.
Two working laboratory farms provide hands-on learning for agriculture students in dairy, crop science, and animal husbandry.
Housing and Dining
Residence Halls
UWRF provides on-campus housing with a dormitory capacity of approximately 2,417 students across multiple residence halls, offering a variety of room styles for different preferences.
- Hathorn Hall – the first campus residence hall
- Stratton Hall and Prucha Hall options
- May Hall and additional housing facilities
Dining and Student Services
Campus dining offers multiple meal plan options including a 21-meal weekly plan. The Hagestad Student Center serves as the hub for student activities and dining services.
- Hagestad Student Center dining facilities
- Flexible meal plan options for residents
- Health and counseling services on campus
Student Life at UW–River Falls
Student Life at UW–River Falls
Student life at UW–River Falls is vibrant and community-oriented, with over 150 student organizations spanning diverse interests, academic majors, beliefs, and hobbies. The close-knit campus atmosphere and proximity to the Twin Cities create a balance of small-town warmth and big-city access.
River Falls, Wisconsin – Location and City Life
River Falls, Wisconsin – Location and City Life
Living in River Falls
River Falls is a welcoming community of about 16,000 residents situated in the beautiful St. Croix River valley of western Wisconsin. Just 30 minutes east of Minneapolis–St. Paul, students enjoy the best of both worlds: a safe, small-town campus environment with easy access to major city amenities, internships, and cultural events.
Proximity to the Twin Cities
Minneapolis–St. Paul is only 30 minutes away, providing access to Fortune 500 companies, major sports venues, world-class arts and dining, and Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport.
Outdoor Recreation
The Kinnickinnic River runs through campus, offering canoeing, fishing, and scenic trails. The St. Croix River valley provides additional hiking, biking, and nature exploration opportunities.
Small-Town Community
River Falls features quaint dining options, local shops, and a friendly community atmosphere within walking distance of campus, making it easy for students to feel at home.
Regional Connectivity
The closest major airport is Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP), approximately 40 miles from campus, providing convenient travel connections for domestic and international students.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Falcons Build Careers
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
UWRF's International Student Services office assists with visa guidance, cultural adjustment, campus orientation, and connecting students to work authorization resources including on-campus employment.
International students can access academic support services including tutoring, the Writing Center, and other resources to strengthen their English language skills throughout their studies.
UWRF maintains partnerships with international institutions, including Zhejiang International Studies University in China, offering exchange and collaborative degree programs for global learners.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings and Recognition
University Rankings and Recognition
UW–River Falls is recognized as a strong regional public university in the Midwest, known for its affordability, sustainability initiatives, and quality undergraduate education. The university has earned recognition from multiple national ranking organizations.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Sciences | Niche | Top-ranked nationally for agricultural sciences programs |
| Education | Historic Strength | Founding mission in teacher preparation since 1874 |
| STEM Fields | UW System | 3rd highest percentage of STEM graduates in the UW System |
| Value and Affordability | Niche | #20 Best Value Colleges in Wisconsin |
Features
The University of Wisconsin–River Falls (UWRF) is a public university founded in 1874, located in the scenic city of River Falls, Wisconsin. Known for its strong programs in agriculture, business, education, and the sciences, UWRF combines academic excellence with hands-on learning experiences. With a student body of around 5,000, the university offers a close-knit community, small class sizes, and strong faculty support. International students benefit from a welcoming campus, affordable tuition, and proximity to the Twin Cities metropolitan area, providing both small-town charm and big-city opportunities.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - December
Location
410 S 3rd St, River Falls, WI 54022
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
