Where is uw stout

Content on WhatAnswers is provided "as is" for informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees. Content is AI-assisted and should not be used as professional advice.

Last updated: April 17, 2026

Quick Answer: The University of Wisconsin–Stout is located in Menomonie, Wisconsin, at 215 E Hallie Ford Drive. Established in 1891, it is part of the University of Wisconsin System and serves over 8,000 students.

Key Facts

Founded in 1891 as a manual training school
Located in Menomonie, Wisconsin (population ~16,000)
Part of the 13-campus University of Wisconsin System
Enrolls over 8,000 students annually
Named after James Huff Stout, a key benefactor

Overview

The University of Wisconsin–Stout, often referred to as UW–Stout, is a public university situated in Menomonie, a city in Dunn County, Wisconsin. It holds the distinction of being the only polytechnic university in the University of Wisconsin System, emphasizing career-focused education in applied sciences, technology, engineering, and design.

Established in 1891 through a donation by lumber baron James Huff Stout, the institution began as the Stout Manual Training School. Today, it operates on a 190-acre campus and offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs across three colleges: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM); Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences; and Business.

Location: UW–Stout is located at 215 E Hallie Ford Drive, Menomonie, WI 54751, approximately 90 miles east of Minneapolis–Saint Paul.
Enrollment: The university serves over 8,000 students, including around 7,200 undergraduates and 800 graduate students.
Historical roots: Founded in 1891, it evolved from a manual training school into a state university by 1964.
Campus size: The campus spans 190 acres and includes 45 academic and residential buildings.
Accreditation: UW–Stout is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and holds specialized accreditations for programs in engineering, business, and education.

How It Works

UW–Stout operates under a polytechnic model, blending theoretical learning with hands-on, industry-aligned experiences. This approach ensures graduates are workforce-ready, with over 90% of students completing internships or co-ops before graduation.

Applied Learning:Over 94% of students participate in experiential learning, including internships, research, and capstone projects with industry partners.
Industry partnerships: The university collaborates with over 1,200 employers, including 3M, Eau Claire Foundry, and IBM, to align curriculum with workforce needs.
Graduate outcomes:96% of graduates are employed or enrolled in further education within six months of graduation, according to 2023 data.
Program delivery: Courses are offered in-person, online, and in hybrid formats, with over 30 online programs available at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Research focus: UW–Stout emphasizes applied research in areas like advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and sustainable design, securing $12.3 million in research funding in 2022.
Student support: The Career Services office hosts an annual Job & Internship Expo attracting over 150 employers and 1,200 students.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how UW–Stout compares to similar institutions in the UW System based on key metrics:

Institution	Location	Enrollment	Founded	Notable Focus
UW–Stout	Menomonie	8,100	1891	Polytechnic, applied learning
UW–Milwaukee	Milwaukee	21,000	1956	Urban research, health sciences
UW–La Crosse	La Crosse	10,200	1909	Health, natural sciences
UW–Platteville	Platteville	6,800	1866	Engineering, agriculture
UW–River Falls	River Falls	6,500	1874	Liberal arts, sustainability

While UW–Stout has a smaller enrollment than many UW System peers, its polytechnic designation sets it apart. The focus on hands-on learning, industry integration, and technical education makes it a unique choice for students seeking direct career pathways. Its location in a smaller city also offers a close-knit community and lower cost of living compared to urban campuses.

Why It Matters

UW–Stout plays a critical role in Wisconsin’s educational and economic landscape by producing job-ready graduates and supporting regional industries. Its model bridges the gap between academia and the workforce, making it a vital asset for students and employers alike.

Workforce development: Graduates fill high-demand roles in manufacturing, IT, and business, helping address Wisconsin’s skilled labor shortage.
Economic impact: UW–Stout contributes an estimated $387 million annually to the state economy.
Accessibility: In-state tuition is $9,036 per year, making it an affordable option for Wisconsin residents.
Diversity initiatives: The university supports over 1,200 underrepresented students through programs like TRIO and the Multicultural Student Services office.
Sustainability: UW–Stout has reduced campus carbon emissions by 32% since 2010 and aims for carbon neutrality by 2050.
Community engagement: Students contribute over 100,000 service hours annually through volunteer programs and partnerships with local organizations.

As industries evolve, UW–Stout’s commitment to applied learning ensures it remains a leader in preparing students for real-world challenges. Its strategic location, specialized mission, and strong industry ties make it a standout institution in the Midwest.