In a time when students and families are seeking greater transparency around the cost of higher education, Colleges of Distinction is proud to name the University of Wisconsin-Platteville a 2025-2026 Affordable College of Distinction. This national recognition highlights institutions that offer a high-quality education that delivers exceptional value for today’s students.
Colleges of Distinction awards this honor based not on sticker price alone, but on a thorough evaluation of each school’s commitment to affordability and return on investment. UW-Platteville stood out among its national peers for successfully combining low net costs with strong student outcomes.
"Accessibility is one of our core values,” said UW-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich. “We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education, and we take pride in removing financial barriers for students. Our tuition is among the lowest in the state, and our graduates are seeing strong returns on their investment, with an average starting salary of more than $67,000."
UW-Platteville was selected based on its strength in the following areas:
- Low net price relative to student household income
- Strong financial support for Pell Grant recipients and other aid-eligible students
- Low median debt among graduates
- Positive early-career earnings compared to peer institutions
- Accessibility across socioeconomic backgrounds
- Measurable return on investment based on federal student outcome data
“For many prospective students, the ability to pay for college is a defining factor in their decision-making process,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “UW-Platteville proves that an engaging, real-world education doesn’t have to come with a heavy financial burden.”
Colleges of Distinction examined each institution’s ability to make college accessible and worthwhile for a wide range of students.
“A college education is one of the most significant investments a person can make,” said Schritter. “UW-Platteville ensures that investment pays off for students, families, and the communities they go on to serve.”
About UW-Platteville
Located in Southwest Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville offers more than 200+ academic programs and is a leader in engineering, science, technology, agriculture and education, with unique initiatives in forensic investigation, renewable energy and other growing fields. Programs are offered across three colleges: College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture; College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science; and the College of Liberal Arts and Education. Prioritizing an affordable, accessible education, UW-Platteville offers tuition rates that are among the lowest in the state and consistently ranks as the top public school in Wisconsin for best return on investment.
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to honoring schools throughout the U.S. for true excellence in higher education. The member schools within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their dedicated focus on the undergraduate experience. Its website provides dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information, and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
