Overview
Milwaukee School of Engineering is a less selective private four-year institution in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The school accepts 63.5% of applicants and enrolls 2,607 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 63.5%
- Total Enrollment
- 2,607
Admission Guide
Milwaukee School of Engineering operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in your senior year to secure your spot and maximize scholarship opportunities. Your application strengthens significantly when you can demonstrate hands-on technical experience through internships, personal projects, or jobs that show you understand what engineering work actually involves.
Write your essays about specific technical projects you've completed, problems you've solved, or systems you've built. MSOE wants to see that you can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. If you've worked on robotics teams, built apps, fixed cars, or created anything with your hands, include those details. The school's project-based curriculum means they want students who learn by doing.
Consider the Honors Program if you want smaller class sizes and research opportunities starting freshman year. Honors students work directly with faculty on industry-sponsored projects, giving you professional connections before graduation. The program requires a separate application with additional essays about your academic goals and leadership experience.
MSOE's campus culture centers around collaboration and practical problem-solving. Students spend significant time in labs and workshops rather than just lecture halls. You'll find classmates who prefer building things to discussing abstract theories. The quarter system moves quickly, covering material in ten weeks instead of sixteen, so strong time management skills are essential.
The school's location in Milwaukee's downtown puts you within walking distance of major employers like Harley-Davidson, Northwestern Mutual, and GE Healthcare. Many students land internships and co-ops at these companies, often leading to full-time offers. Your application should show awareness of how Milwaukee's industrial base connects to your career goals.
Don't submit generic engineering essays. Research MSOE's specific programs like their Software Engineering degree or their unique Architectural Engineering program, which combines structural and building systems engineering. Mention particular labs, faculty research areas, or industry partnerships that align with your interests. The school's small size means admissions officers will notice when you've done your homework about what makes MSOE different from larger engineering programs.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $24,021/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $48,421
- Students Receiving Aid
- 23%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 71.5%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $89,070/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.2%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Milwaukee School of Engineering require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Milwaukee School of Engineering is test-optional, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not required but can be submitted to strengthen your application.
What is the application deadline for Milwaukee School of Engineering?
Milwaukee School of Engineering has rolling admissions with no specific deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying earlier improves your chances of acceptance and housing options.
Can I transfer credits to Milwaukee School of Engineering?
Milwaukee School of Engineering accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions. Credits must align with MSOE's curriculum requirements and typically need a grade of C or better to transfer.
Does Milwaukee School of Engineering offer early decision or early action?
Milwaukee School of Engineering does not offer early decision or early action programs. The school operates on a rolling admissions basis throughout the academic year.