About Lakeland University
The financial picture tells a mixed story. Students pay an average net price of $22,092 after aid, well below the $32,286 sticker price. Graduates earn a median of $55,961 ten years after graduation, making the typical debt load of $25,000 manageable with monthly payments around $265. However, only 55.7% of students graduate within six years, which prospective students should consider carefully.
Athletics play a big role in campus life, with 400 students competing in 21 varsity sports as the Muskies in Division III. The retention rate of 66.52% suggests some students struggle to adjust or find their fit. Women make up 56.26% of the student body, and about two-thirds of students come from Wisconsin.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 15.6%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 53.7%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 55.7%
- Retention Rate
- 66.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $55,961
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Large)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $60,689 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Bachelor | $55,964 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $55,625 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $45,207 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $44,091 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $43,207 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $42,682 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $40,305 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $39,909 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $36,490 |
Campus Life
The 13:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name and career goals. Students often gather in the campus center between classes, and many join the 400 athletes competing in 21 varsity sports. Basketball and football games draw crowds during the long winters. The United Church of Christ affiliation creates a welcoming atmosphere without being overly religious. Weekend activities center around campus events, intramural sports, and trips to nearby lakes for hiking or fishing. Many students work part-time jobs in town or research positions with faculty. The 66.52% retention rate reflects students who either love the small-town environment or decide it's not quite the right fit.
- Setting
- Rural-Fringe
- Housing Capacity
- 672 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1862
Campus Safety (2023)
7 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dating Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Fondling | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 11°–26°F
- July Avg
- 60°–80°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 34.9"
- Annual Snowfall
- 49.1"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 43.7%
- Women
- 56.3%
- White
- 63.6%
- Black
- 10.4%
- Hispanic
- 8.1%
- Asian
- 3.6%
- In-State Students
- 64.1%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 29.0%
Location
- Address
- Plymouth, Wisconsin 53073
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $55,961
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $58,016
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $39,400
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 57.1%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $265/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $25,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Lakeland University?
Lakeland University accepts 99.51% of applicants, making admission guaranteed for students who apply. The school focuses on providing access to higher education rather than selectivity. This open-door policy reflects the university's mission to serve students from diverse backgrounds.
How much does Lakeland University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $22,092 after financial aid, less than the full tuition of $32,286. The school provides substantial financial support to make education affordable. Nearly 29% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong support for lower-income families.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Lakeland University?
The student-faculty ratio is 13:1, providing students with personalized attention in small class settings. This intimate academic environment allows for close mentoring relationships with professors. The school's liberal arts focus emphasizes discussion-based learning and individualized instruction.
What are the graduation rates at Lakeland University?
The six-year graduation rate is 55.70%, while 53.70% of students graduate within four years. Graduates earn a median salary of $55,961 ten years after graduation, showing solid career outcomes. The school's emphasis on practical programs like criminal justice and education helps prepare students for immediate employment.
Where is Lakeland University located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Plymouth, Wisconsin, a rural-fringe setting that offers a close-knit community atmosphere. Housing capacity serves 672 students out of the total enrollment of 1,230. The small-town environment fosters strong relationships between students and creates a supportive college experience.
Does Lakeland University have strong athletics programs?
The Muskies compete in NCAA Division III with 21 varsity sports and 400 total athletes participating. Athletic scholarships total $19,000, supporting student-athletes in their academic and athletic pursuits. The Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference provides competitive opportunities while maintaining the school's focus on academics first.
