GRADUATE SCHOOL
uw-milwaukee
A TOP-TIER RESEARCH UNIVERSITY
WHERE DISCOVERY BECOMES A WAY OF LIFE
At the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, research isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are. Walk our campus and you’ll feel it: ideas in motion, breakthroughs in progress.
UWM is one of a select few—among more than 4,600 U.S. institutions—honored with the Carnegie Classification’s “highest research activity” status. It’s a rare distinction, earned by only two universities in the state, and it places us among the nation’s elite. But this recognition is more than a badge. This elite status reflects decades of work by our faculty, students, and staff—collaborating across disciplines, exploring in labs and libraries, and sharing discoveries with the world. Being a top-tier research university means more than producing knowledge—it means shaping what’s next. At UWM, we don't just teach innovation—we live it. And this designation is just the beginning.
Best Midwest University
VISIT CAMPUS
There’s nothing like setting foot on campus to truly feel the spirit of UWM. This is where big ideas come to life—and where the next generation of graduate scholars finds its voice.
Our renowned faculty are more than leaders in their fields—they’re mentors, collaborators, and trailblazers invested in your success, helping shape a vibrant research community where discovery is a shared journey.
There’s no better time to see what a graduate degree at UWM can mean for your future. Join us for a tour and get an inside look at all our campus has to offer.
GRADUATE programs
A
Administrative Leadership, MS*
Anthropology, MS, PhD
Architecture, MArch, MS, PhD
Art, MA, MFA
Art History, MA
Athletic Training, MS
B
Biological Sciences, MS, PhD
Biomedical and Health
Informatics, PhD
Biomedical Sciences, MS
Biostatistics, MS
Business Administration, MBA*
C
Chemistry, MS, PhD
Cinematic Arts, MFA
Communication, MA, PhD
Communication Sciences and Disorders, MS
Computer Science, MS,PhD
Connected Systems
Engineering, MS
Criminal Justice and Criminology MS*
Cultural Foundations of Community Engagement and Education, MS*
Curriculum and Instruction, MS
D
Dance, MFA
Data Science and Applied Artificial Intelligence, MS*
Digital Supply Chain Management, MS
Economics, MA, PhD
Educational Psychology, MS, PhD
Electrical Engineering, PhD
Engineering, MS, PhD
English, MA, PhD
Environmental Health Sciences, PhD
Epidemiology, PhD
Exceptional Education, MS*
Executive MBA
Freshwater Sciences, MS, PhD G
Geography, MA, MS, PhD
Geosciences, MS, PhD
Health Care Informatics, MS*
Health Sciences, PhD
Healthcare Administration, MHA*
History, MA, PhD I
Information Science and Technology, MS*
Information Studies, PhD
Information Technology Management, MS
K
Kinesiology, MS, PhD L
Language, Literature and Translation, MA
Library and Information Science, MLIS*
Linguistics, MA, PhD M
Management, MS
Management Science, PhD
Mathematics, MS, PhD
Mechanical Engineering PhD Music, MM
Nonprofit Management and Leadership, MS
Nursing, MN, PhD*
Nursing Practice, DNP* O
Occupational Therapy, MS, OTD
Philosophy, MA
Physical Therapy, DPT
Physics, MS, PhD
Political Science, MA, PhD
Psychology, MS, PhD
Public Administration, MPA
Public Health, MPH, PhD R
Rehabilitation Sciences & Technology, MS S
School Psychology, EdS
Social Welfare, PhD
Social Work, MSW*
Sociology, MA, PhD T
Translation and Interpreting Studies, MA*
U
Urban Design, MUD
Urban Education, PhD
Urban Planning, MUP
Urban Studies, MS, PhD W
Women’s and Gender Studies, MA
64 MASTER'S DEGREES
38 DOCTORAL DEGREES
24 COORDINATED PROGRAMS
COORDINATED PROGRAMS
A
Architecture, Arch/Urban Planning, MUP
B
Business Administration, MBA/ Healthcare Administration, MHA
Business Administration, MBA/ Information Technology Management, MS
Business Administration, MBA/ Nursing Practice, DNP*
Business Administration, MBA/ Translation & Interpreting Studies, MA
C
Criminal Justice and Criminology, MS/ Social Welfare, PhD
Criminal Justice and Criminology, MS/ Social Work, MSW
LLibrary and Information Science, MLIS/ Anthropology, MS
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Art History, MA
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ English, MA
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Geography, MA
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Health Care Informatics, MS*
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ History, MA
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Information Science and Technology, MS*
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Language, Literature and Translation, MA*
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Music, MM
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Translation and Interpreting Studies, MA*
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Urban Studies, MS
Library and Information Science, MLIS/ Women’s and Gender Studies, MA
PPublic Administration, MPA/ Criminal Justice and Criminology, MS
Public Health, MPH/Social Work, MSW
SSocial Work, MSW/Women’s and Gender Studies, MA
UUrban Planning, MUP/Engineering, MS
Urban Planning, MUP/ Public Administration, MPA
*Available as a fully online program. Other programs may have online classes available.
ACCELERATED GRADUATE DEGREES
Make the most of UWM’s prestigious designation as an “R1” research university! Bright, highly-motivated undergraduates with clear academic goals can start graduate work before completing their bachelor’s degrees. Students can save up to a full year of enrollment and tuition by double-counting graduate coursework between the two degrees. Some students graduate with both degrees in as few as five years.
Each accelerated master’s degree pairs a single undergraduate degree with a single graduate degree. Eligibility, double- counting and application procedures differ. See program for details. The UWM accelerated master’s degrees (listed by graduate topic) are:
A Anthropology
» Anthropology, BA/Anthropology, MS
Art History
» Art History, BA/Art History, MA
Athletic Training
» Kinesiology, BS/ Athletic Training, MS
B
Biomedical Sciences
» Biomedical Sciences, BS/ Biomedical Sciences, MS
C
Cultural Foundations of Community Engagement & Education
» Community Engagement & Education, BS/Cultural Foundations of Community Engagement & Education, MS
Computer Science
» Computer Science, BS/ Computer Science, MS
» Computer Engineering, BS/ Computer Science, MS
Criminal Justice & Criminology
» Criminal Justice & Criminology, BS/ Criminal Justice & Criminology, MS
D
Digital Supply Chain Management
» Supply Chain and Operations Management, BBA /Digital Supply Chain Management, MS
E Economics
» Economics, BA/Economics, MA
Educational Psychology
» Community Engagement & Education, BS/Educational Psychology, MS: Cognitive & Developmental Sciences
Engineering
» Biomedical Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
» Civil Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
» Computer Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
» Electrical Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
» Environmental Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
» Industrial Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
» Materials Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
» Mechanical Engineering, BS/ Engineering, MS
Exceptional Education
» Exceptional Education, BS/ Exceptional Education, MS
F
Freshwater Sciences
» Freshwater Sciences, BS: Aquatic Science/Freshwater Sciences, MS: Aquatic Science (Professional)
» Freshwater Sciences, BS: Aquatic Science/Freshwater Sciences, MS: Water Policy (Professional)
» Freshwater Sciences, BS: Water Policy/Freshwater Sciences, MS: Aquatic Science (Professional)
» Freshwater Sciences, BS: Water Policy/Freshwater Sciences, MS: Water Policy (Professional)
IInformation Technology Management
» Accounting, BBA/Information Technology Management, MS
» Business Administration, BBA/ Information Technology Management, MS
» Finance, BBA/Information Technology Management, MS
» Human Resources Management, BBA/Information Technology Management, MS
» Information Technology Management, BBA/Information Technology Management, MS
» Marketing, BBA/Information Technology Management, MS
» Supply Chain and Operations Management, BBA/Information Technology Management, MS
Information Science & Technology
» Information Science and Technology, BS/Information Science and Technology, MS
K
Kinesiology
» Kinesiology, BS/Kinesiology, MS L
Library and Information Science
» Information Science & Technology, BS/ Library and Information Science, MLIS
M
Management
» Finance, BBA/Management, MS: Finance Analysis
» Marketing, BBA/Management, MS: Marketing
P
Public Health
» Public Health, BS/Public Health, MPH: Community and Behavioral Health Promotion
» Public Health, BS/Public Health, MPH: Environmental Health Sciences
» Public Health, BS/Public Health, MPH: Epidemiology
» Public Health, BS/Public Health, MPH: Public Health Policy Physical Therapy
» Kinesiology, BS/ Physical Therapy, DPT Physics
» Physics, BS/Physics, MS
TTranslation & Interpreting Studies
» French, BA/Translation and Interpreting Studies, MA
» German, BA/Translation and Interpreting Studies, MA
» Global Studies, BA/Translation and Interpreting Studies, MA
» Latin American, Caribbean, and U.S. Latinx Studies, BA/Translation and Interpreting Studies, MA
U
Urban Planning
» Urban Studies, BA/ Urban Planning, MUP
CERTIFICATES
A
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
Nurse Practitioner
Advanced Study in Archives and Records Administration*
Advanced Study in Teaching & Learning
Applied Econometrics & Data Analysis
Applied Gerontology
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning*
Assistive Technology and Accessible Design*
Autism Spectrum Disorders
B Business Analytics*
C Clinical Nurse Specialist
Cyber Crime Forensics
D
Data Curation
Data Science & Applied Artificial Intelligence
NATHAN
Masters of Science in Nursing
REAL-WORLD LEARNING
“With the nursing master’s program, you get exposure to the health care field right away. It’s a smaller cohort which is nice. And it’s a very hands-on program — in the simulation lab, they prepare you so well for the real world in nursing.
MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES
“Working in the ER, my confidence has increased greatly because my background knowledge from the classroom has increased. When I portray more confidence, my patients have more confidence in me.”
Digital Cultures
Digital Libraries*
Digital Supply Chain Management* E Energy Engineering
Enterprise Resource Planning* Entrepreneurship F
Family Nurse Practitioner
Finance
Geographic Information Systems
Global Educator H
Health Care Management
Health Data Science
Health Professional Education
Healthcare Compliance*
I
Information Security
Interdisciplinary Language and Literacy Intervention (ILLI)
International Human Resources & Labor Relations
Interpreting
Interprofessional Graduate Certificate in Public & Population Health
Investment Management
M
Marketing
Maternal and Child Health
Mathematics Teacher Leadership*
Mediation & Negotiation
Modern Engineering Leadership
Museum Studies
Music Performance
N
Nonprofit Management
O
Professional Practice in Civil Engineering Infrastructure *
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
S
School Counseling
Sport & Performance Psychology
Student Success Advising & Technology-Based Services in Higher Education* T
Teaching and Learning in Higher Education*
Transition for Students With Disabilities
Translation*
Trauma-Informed Care
V
Organizational Leadership in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion P
Value-Based Healthcare* W
Women’s & Gender Studies
*Available as a fully online program. Other programs may have online classes available.
distinction ACADEMIC
SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE & URBAN PLANNING
As the state's leading destination for architecture and urban planning, we take pride in our interdisciplinary approach, cuttingedge facilities, and hands-on learning experiences. SARUP’s award-winning faculty are dedicated to educating and supporting the next generation of designers, planners, and leaders equipped to address the challenges of contemporary society. Our externship program offers direct access to professional practice and serves as a strong pathway to post-graduation employment. In addition, paid research opportunities provide both financial support and valuable experience in shaping the future of the built environment.
PECK SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
Excellent performing and visual arts training, a full calendar of events, and deep connections with Milwaukee’s creative economy make the Peck School of the Arts a destination for aspiring artists and creative entrepreneurs. Immersed in hands-on learning and mentored by faculty who are working artists, our graduate students explore uncharted territory in art and design, dance, music, and film. That’s because our faculty not only educate and inspire the next generation of artists but also welcome them as essential collaborators united on a mission to change the world through the arts.
SCHOOL OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES & HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
The School of Biomedical Sciences & Health Care Administration is a vibrant learning environment. We train, in accredited programs, health professionals who work directly with patients, perform clinical laboratory testing, and who work in leadership roles held by managers in hospitals, nursing homes, insurance companies and medical offices. Recent graduates and working
healthcare professionals alike can take the next step in their career through our MS in Biomedical Sciences, MA or executive MA in Healthcare Administration, Dual Master of Healthcare Administration & Master of Business Administration or PhD in Health Sciences. The School also offers graduate certificates in Healthcare Compliance, Health Professional Education, Value-based Healthcare and Interprofessional Public and Population Health.
LUBAR COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
As a major metropolitan business school, the Lubar College offers MBA and MS Management programs that help rising business professionals advance in their careers in general management, IT management, marketing, finance, accounting, and other career specializations. The Lubar College is among the 5% of business schools worldwide accredited by AACSB International.
SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
Wisconsin’s premier school of urban education empowers bold thinkers to lead change in classrooms, communities, and beyond. Our graduate programs span administrative leadership, educational psychology, teaching and learning, and educational policy and community studies—each fueled by curiosity, grounded in research, and guided by expert faculty dedicated to shaping the future of education. With flexible online options and interdisciplinary paths, we make it possible for you to explore new directions or elevate your current role. Whether you're called to teach, counsel, lead, or research, UWM is where your journey begins.
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & APPLIED SCIENCE
In response to industry demand, students can now accelerate their careers with the new and interdisciplinary Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Master of Science concentration and Wisconsin's first Connected Systems Engineering master's degree. As one of only two public universities in Wisconsin offering engineering degrees through the doctoral level, UWM plays a crucial role in empowering a highly skilled technological workforce. Alumni include Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft. Students achieve their research goals alongside top-tier faculty, at Southeast Wisconsin's only R1 university. They apply their skills to high-
demand focus areas, including energy and sustainability, biomedical and health, infrastructure, water and transportation and advanced manufacturing. Students in MS and PhD programs in the college receive over $3,000,000 in funding, tuition, and benefits each year.
SCHOOL OF FRESHWATER SCIENCES
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the School of Freshwater Sciences is the only school in North America devoted entirely to the study of freshwater ecosystems. Using our decades of expertise in freshwater research, we created a graduate program designed to train the next generation of freshwater leaders. Our students graduate with a fundamental understanding of the science and policies that govern freshwater ecosystems, enabling them to take on prominent roles in government, academia, nonprofits, industry, and consulting. We offer traditional PhD and MS programs, as well as an internship-based MS professional program.
SCHOOL OF INFORMATION STUDIES
Driven by discovery and fueled by curiosity, UWM’s School of Information Studies empowers students to lead in an everevolving information landscape. As a trailblazer in online education, the school offers a nationally ranked, ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Science, along with cuttingedge programs in Information Science & Technology (MS) and Information Studies (PhD). With a focus on experiential learning and real-world impact, our graduates are equipped to advance libraries, technology, and information access in bold and meaningful ways. If you’re ready to explore, innovate, and lead— UWM is your starting point.
COLLEGE OF LETTERS & SCIENCE
Home to the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, L&S has the largest breadth of graduate programs and scholarly research at UWM, with 24 master’s degrees, 17 doctoral programs, and a variety of certificates. The college is also the research powerhouse of campus, with funded projects spanning from drug discovery to the impact of social media, anxiety disorders to voter behavior, and everything in between; our graduate students produce and disseminate new knowledge across all of our fields of study.
SCHOOL OF NURSING
As Wisconsin's largest nursing program, the graduate nursing program is nationally accredited and ranked by U.S. News & World Report. Over $500,000 of funding is made available to nursing students annually. From pediatrics to geriatrics, community clinics to hospitals, our faculty partners with students to conduct research and scholarship that advances science in nursing and health to transform health care delivery and health policy.
JOSEPH J. ZILBER COLLEGE OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Wisconsin’s only nationally accredited school of public health offers graduate education in several areas of study: biostatistics; community and behavioral health promotion; environmental health sciences; epidemiology; health care informatics; kinesiology; nutrition and dietetics; and public health policy and management.
SCHOOL OF REHABILITATION SCIENCES & TECHNOLOGY
The School of Rehabilitation Sciences & Technology offers toprated programs that lead to an abundant array of occupations and specializations. One of the most robust scientific research operations at UWM with a strong focus on interprofessional education, technology and community engagement, the School offers graduate programs in Assistive Technology and Universal Design, Athletic Training, Communication Sciences & Disorders (speech-language pathology), Human Factors Innovations, Sport & Performance Psychology, Occupational Therapy (MS and Doctorate), Rehabilitation Sciences and Physical Therapy.
HELEN BADER SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WELFARE
Proudly supporting an array of social work and criminal justice programming, the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare empowers students to lead with purpose. The school offers an online and on campus master’s in social work, a master’s in criminal justice and criminology, and a PhD in Social Welfare. Cross-disciplinary options include graduate certificates in applied gerontology, cyber crime forensics and trauma-informed care, as well as joint master's degree programs. Fundamental to social welfare in Milwaukee and with established regional connections, the school provides extensive field placement opportunities, research, and community connections.
online
MAKE NEW WAVES WITH UWM ONLINE
At the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, online learning means more than flexibility — it means momentum. Whether you’re launching a new career, advancing in your field, or preparing for licensure, UWM Online meets you where you are and helps you go further.
We offer more than 50 fully online graduate programs and over 600 online graduate-level courses each year. As Wisconsin’s leader in online education and a top-tier R1 research university, UWM brings together academic excellence and real-world relevance. Our expert faculty deliver engaging, high-quality instruction designed for busy professionals who are balancing work, life, and learning.
LEARNING THAT MOVES WITH YOU
UWM Online is built for students managing real life while pursuing real goals. Courses are asynchronous, giving you the freedom to learn on your schedule — without sacrificing the personal connection and support that define a UWM education.
SUPPORT THAT KEEPS YOU ON TRACK
» Individualized academic advising
» 24/7 technology assistance
» Access to the UWM Writing Center and virtual tutoring
» A dedicated online librarian and extensive digital collections
» Career-aligned programs and licensure preparation
FROM COURSEWORK TO CAREER IMPACT
UWM Online is more than a convenient way to earn a degree — it’s a powerful step toward what’s next. Our students apply what they learn to solve real challenges in their fields and in their communities. Wherever they begin, they graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make meaningful change in their professions — and ripple effects far beyond. uwm.edu/online
Over 50 graduate online programs
» Master's
» Doctoral
» Coordinated Programs
» Certificates
» Certifications
During her graduate studies in Clinical Social Work, Zoe completed a Youth-Oriented Substance Use and Trauma Counseling program, where she developed specialized skills in traumainformed care. She applied these competencies in her therapeutic work with clients in a private practice setting.
IN YOUR FUTURE invest
2025-26 Estimated Yearly Tuition and Fees
*These numbers are estimates only and will vary based on your accommodations and meal choices.
This table is based on Spring 2025 tuition rates for eight credits or more per semester and is an estimate for two semesters.
A $30 per credit Instructional Technology fee is assessed for any online or hybrid class in addition to the Segregated Fee. There is no credit plateau for the Instructional Technology Fee. The amounts listed on this fee schedule do not include any special course fees or differential tuition that will be charged in addition to the normal tuition and are not included in pricing plateau. Consult the Spring 2025 Schedule of Classes for a complete listing. Differential tuition is defined on the Additional/Differential per credit Charges table available from the Spring 2025 Tuition and Fee Rates page.
ONE STOP ENROLLMENT AND FINANCIAL SERVICES
» Consult the tuition and fees website under the cost tab for the most current fees: uwm.edu/finances
» Consult the schedule of classes for a complete listing: uwm.edu/schedule
financing YOUR EDUCATION
FULL-TIME FELLOWSHIPS
DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE STUDENT FELLOWSHIP (DGSF)
Recognizes strong academic and scholarly achievement or potential relative to expectations in discipline, demonstrated leadership potential and research goals.
Eligibility: Open to all full-time master’s and PhD students not yet at dissertator status.
Benefits:
» Academic year stipend: $15,500
» Tuition coverage: 8-12 credits per semester.
» Health insurance: single or family.
» Travel award: $1,000
$30M IN GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS (STIPENDS, TUITION AND HEALTH INSURANCE)
Full Tuition
The Wisconsin GI Bill provides full tuition and segregated fee remission for eligible veterans and their dependents for up to eight semesters or 128 credits, whichever is greater
ADVANCED OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM FELLOWSHIP (AOPF)
Designed to assist underrepresented racial/ethnic minority as well as disadvantaged non-minority students in graduate study to enter and complete a graduate degree at UWM. AOPF nominations are based on a demonstration of high academic achievement.
Eligibility: Open to prospective and current full-time master’s or doctoral students. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Benefits:
» Academic year stipend: $16,000 master's, $18,000 doctoral
» Tuition coverage: 8-12 credits per semester
» Health insurance: single or family
» Fellowship renewal: 2 years for master’s and 3 years for doctoral
» Travel award: $1,000
DISTINGUISHED DISSERTATION FELLOWSHIP (DDF)
Recognizes exceptional scholarly achievements and recognition relative to expectations in field of study, exceptional performance as TA/RA and exceptional potential contribution of dissertation to new knowledge. Demonstrated leadership experience and potential.
Eligibility: Open to all full-time UWM PhD students at dissertator status.
Benefits:
» Academic year stipend: $17,000
» Tuition coverage: 3 credits per semester
» Health insurance: single or family
» Travel award: $1,000
$30M IN FELLOWSHIP BENEFITS
Jadyn, a master of architecture student, researched trauma-informed design solutions for people experiencing housing instability. She interned at Zimmerman Architectural Studios and earned a fulltime position upon graduation.
PARTIAL FELLOWSHIPS
MCNAIR GRADUATE ENTRANCE FELLOWSHIP (MGEF)
A one-time $3,000 fellowship awarded to all McNair Scholars in a full-time UWM graduate degree program. Serves to recognize the exceptional scholarship, research background, and doctoral readiness of Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program participants.
Eligibility: Open to McNair Scholars in their first semester of full-time graduate studies at UWM. To confirm McNair Scholar status, submit a McNair Participant Verification Letter and the McNair Scholars Program Application Fee Waiver form with UWM Graduate School application. Both documents must be signed by the McNair Program Director.
Requirements & Conditions:
» Award may be accepted in addition to other fellowships/financial aid
» Payment is non-transferrable and cannot be used as a reimbursement
» Awarding approved after the final drop deadline in first semester
Graduate Student Excellence Fund (GSEF)
The Graduate Student Excellence Fund was established in 2015 as a philanthropic effort to provide advanced degree students the support they need to pursue their research endeavors, complete their studies and share discoveries with others in their fields. Supporters of this fund represent individual alumni and friends of graduate education, private foundations, and corporate donors from areas such as business, industry, law, medicine and public service.
financing YOUR EDUCATION
ASSISTANTSHIPS
Approximately one quarter of the more than 4,200 UWM graduate students receive teaching, project or research assistantships from their program that cover their tuition, health care costs, provide a stipend and support their fulltime studies. Students should contact their academic program for information on how to secure an assistantship.
Assistantships are available for qualified graduate students and, based on the appointment, are considered employees in training. Various assistantships are available, including:
» Teaching Assistantship (TA): Teaching assistants gain professional development in instruction while playing important roles in the learning experience of undergraduate students. A teaching assistant is an enrolled graduate student who is regularly assigned teaching and related responsibilities under the supervision of a faculty member.
» Project Assistantship (PA): Project assistants are assigned to conduct training, administrative responsibilities or other academic or academic support projects or programs – except regular preparation of instructional materials for courses or manual or clerical assignments – under the supervision of a member of the faculty or academic staff, primarily for the benefit of the university, faculty or academic staff supervisor or a granting agency.
» Research Assistantship (RA): Research assistants conduct research primarily for the benefit of the individual’s course of study and research, and directly applicable to the individual’s thesis or dissertation.
Benefits
The benefits of appointment as an assistant (minimum 33 percent appointment) include:
» Tuition remission (excludes student segregated fees) for 6-12 credits per semester
» TA and PA stipends commensurate with their academic level. RA stipends range from $15,918-$22,285 for research assistantships based on school or college disciplinary grouping
» Access to lower-cost health insurance (single or family)
Graduate Level TA (50%) PA (50%)
Non-doctoral $14,774 Hourly Rate: $16.67
Doctoral $16,334 Hourly Rate: $18.37
Dissertator $17,687 Hourly Rate: $20.41
*Based on 9-month (Academic “C” basis) length of appointment. Appointments are made on a semester or academic year basis and may vary between 33 percent and 50 percent appointments. Maintaining good academic standing: This appointment and any associated benefits are contingent on the maintenance of good standing in your academic program and the Graduate School. You also must register for and complete a minimum number of credits each semester per UWM policy and the requirements of your academic program. Please contact your Graduate Program Representative for more information. Positions do not include the Winterim semester.
It is the policy of the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents that all UW System campuses conduct criminal background checks on prospective employees for a university position.
International Students
» Positions are contingent upon maintaining your immigration status. Appointment cannot commence until you have the appropriate visa category and an I-9 form is completed.
» Appointment cannot exceed 50 percent of full time (20 hours per week) during the Spring and Fall semesters.
» Teaching Assistantship appointments are contingent upon your demonstrated proficiency in English in one of the following ways:
• Submission of a valid test score with your application
- TOEFL iBT: at least 24 on the speaking section
- IELTS: at least a 7.0 on the speaking section
- Duolingo: at least a 125 on the Conversation and Production section
• Complete the UWM International TA Assessment (MITAA) and earn a minimum score of 15 overall, and a 3 in pronunciation.
Students unable to meet these requirements will be required to take English for Academic Purposes (EAP) coursework either prior to OR concurrently with your TA teaching duties, depending on the scores in other categories.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Most scholarship opportunities for graduate students are available through fellowships, assistantships, and tuition waivers, typically offered by individual departments within the School or College. Graduate students are also encouraged to explore additional opportunities through the Panther Scholarship Portal. uwm.edu/scholarships.
STUDENT LOANS
Milwaukee is an excellent choice for budgetconscious graduate students. As a Midwestern public research university, UWM is known for offering high-quality education at an affordable cost. We encourage students to explore financial aid options, including loans and assistantships, to help manage the cost of graduate study. It's a valuable investment—and with the right support, you can focus on what matters most: your academic and professional goals.
More than 80 percent of our 23,000 students qualify for financial aid, including the following loans:
» Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan: up to $20,500
» Federal Grad PLUS Loan: up to estimated cost of attendance minus any other aid
To be considered for any of these loans, file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid online at FAFSA.gov.
GRADUATE STUDENT FINANCIAL AID ELIGIBILITY
All original financial aid offers assume enrollment in eight or more credits per semester. Graduate students must take at least four graduate-level credits to qualify for federal financial aid. However, if you are taking undergraduate coursework that applies to your graduate program, you may be eligible for graduate aid if you are enrolled at least half-time (four credits) with documentation from your academic advisor. Based on the FAFSA, graduate students will be evaluated for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans only.
Non-degree Students
Students who are not accepted into a degree-granting program are classified as non-degree students and are not generally eligible for financial aid. Exceptions may be made for those enrolled in eligible certification programs or those taking prerequisite courses for admission to a UWM degree or certification program. In those cases, students must submit a completed Non-Degree Student Verification form to the Student Financial Service Center as early as possible.
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
All students are expected to be making satisfactory academic progress (SAP) toward a degree to be eligible for financial aid. SAP consists of two components of measurement: qualitative and quantitative. The qualitative measure is established by the performance standards of the school or college in which the student is enrolled. The quantitative measures consists of “pace” and “timeframe.”
Don't Procrastinate!
Funds are limited, and the earlier you apply for financial aid, the more you could potentially save.
Graduate students need to complete at least 50 percent of all attempted credits to meet the pace requirement. To meet the timeframe requirement, graduate students cannot attempt more than 200 percent of the number of credits required for the degree.
For more complete information on Student Financial Services including costs, scholarships and aid, please visit: uwm.edu/finances
milwaukeeDISCOVER
6
There’s something uniquely energizing about an urban campus like UWM’s, where the rhythm of city life inspires both your studies and your social life. With major employers just around the corner, it's easy to gain real-world experience and build a standout resume through internships and networking. And when it’s time to take a break from your career path, there’s no better place to recharge than right here in our hometown.
#3 Best Big City in the U.S.
— Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, 2023 and 2024
LAKEFRONT LIVING
Just minutes from UWM, Lake Michigan’s Bradford Beach offers stunning waves, sandy shores, scenic trails, and sailboats—year-round reminders of why Milwaukee stands out as one of the most picturesque college towns in the country.
BIGGEST SMALL TOWN IN AMERICA?
Even in Wisconsin’s largest city, you’re bound to run into someone you know— tailgating at American Family Field, strolling the Summerfest midway, or exploring the markets and marquees of Milwaukee’s vibrant theater district. Discover a charming city on Lake Michigan, where the scenic RiverWalk links lively restaurants, buzzing nightlife, and trendy neighborhoods.
THINK NATURALLY
Bike, run, or hike through Milwaukee’s award-winning parks. As a top 10 city for urban forests, Milwaukee pairs natural beauty with a strong academic reputation in sustainability education and job creation.
1,725+ COMPANIES RECRUIT AT UWM
Community Partners
#7 in Top U.S. Metros for Young Professionals
— Forbes Advisor in 2024
» 100+ festivals and events every year
» 1,500 acres of beaches and lakefront parks
» 15+ museums downtown
» 150+ miles of Milwaukee County bike trails
25 Breathtaking Places & Experiences for 2023
National Geographic
UWM partners with nearly 3,000 businesses, nonprofits, schools and other organizations including:
Associated Bank
Advocate Health
Aurora Health Care
Baird
Briggs & Stratton Corp.
Caterpillar
Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
City of Milwaukee
Health Department
Direct Supply
Froedtert Health
GE Healthcare
Harley-Davidson Motor Co.
Johnson Controls
Kohler Co.
Manpower International
Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Medical College of Wisconsin
Molson Coors
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee Public Library
Milwaukee Public Museum
Northwestern Mutual
Rockwell Automation
Schools and Universities
State of Wisconsin
Department of Justice
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Photo courtesy of VISIT Milwaukee
STUDENT RESOURCES wave JOIN THE NEXT
There are so many resources here. I feel like I’ve lost count of them. UWM has resources that will help you grow as a student in whatever field you are in. Take advantage of them — if you need more information, just ask.
Emmanuel, Linguistics, PhD
Whether you're pursuing a professional master’s degree, conducting research toward a doctorate, or advancing your career through a coordinated or certificate program, you can count on our full commitment to your success. UWM offers a wide range of campus resources designed to enrich your experience and support you on the path to earning your degree:
» Accessibility Resource Center
» American Indian Student Center
» Black Student Cultural Center
» Center for Student Experience & Talent (SET)
» Center for International Education
» Children’s Learning Center
» Community Empowerment & Institutional Inclusivity
» Electa Quinney Institute for American Indian Education
» Housing
» LGBTQ+ Resource Center
» Libraries
» Military and Veterans Resource Center (MAVRC)
» Roberto Hernandez Center
» Southeast Asian American Student Center
» Student Financial Services
» Student Health & Wellness Center
See all of our resources at: uwm.edu/graduateschool/gradresources
» Student Organizations
» Student Parent Success Program
» Transportation Services
» University Legal Clinic
» University Recreation
» University Technology Services
» Women’s Resource Center
» The Writing Center
TODAY! apply
Our Graduate School Admission Application system will guide you through the steps toward completing your application. But before you begin, here are the general requirements for admission to graduate school at UWM:
» A baccalaureate degree, or its equivalent
» Proficiency in the English language
» A minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
» Transcripts
» Application fee
You will find additional program requirements in the Graduate School Admission Application. If you have questions about these requirements, please contact your program.
Full admission: Students admitted in this category do not have any enrollment restrictions based on their English proficiency.
Dual admission: Students admitted in this category are eligible to enroll in six credits of academic coursework and are also required to enroll in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) coursework.
