Head-to-head · 2026
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee vs University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 4 for University of Wisconsin-Parkside — University of Wisconsin-Parkside has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | University of Wisconsin-Parkside |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.16 | 10.86 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $15,014 | $11,772 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $54,990 ✓ | $51,129 |
| Acceptance rate | 90.7% | 75.4% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 49.3% ✓ | 40.4% |
| Median debt | $23,000 | $20,492 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 16,758 | 2,844 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1090 | 1090 |
| Wins | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee costs $3,242 more per year than University of Wisconsin-Parkside ($15,014 vs $11,772). University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee graduates report $3,861 higher median earnings after ten years ($54,990 vs $51,129). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Wisconsin-Parkside ahead on projected ROI (10.86 vs 9.16, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Wisconsin-Parkside) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is accessible at 90.7% acceptance versus 75.4% (accessible) at University of Wisconsin-Parkside.
Frequently asked
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee vs University of Wisconsin-Parkside, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee or University of Wisconsin-Parkside the better value?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.86 vs 9.16), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside is cheaper — average net price $11,772 per year vs $15,014 at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The annual difference of $3,242 adds up to about $12,968 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $54,990 vs $51,129 at University of Wisconsin-Parkside. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,861.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside is more selective at 75.4% acceptance vs 90.7% at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee reports a B value grade; University of Wisconsin-Parkside reports A.