Why Is Baraboo, Wisconsin Famous?
Baraboo, Wisconsin is a city with a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Located in the heart of Sauk County, Baraboo is renowned for being the original headquarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus, which played a pivotal role in shaping Online MBA USAn entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the Circus World Museum, located in downtown Baraboo, stands as a testament to this legacy, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Beyond its circus roots, Baraboo is also famous for its proximity to the stunning Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin’s most visited state park. The area’s unique glacial landscape, scenic hiking trails, and rock formations draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The International Crane Foundation, a leading global organization for crane conservation, also calls Baraboo home, further elevating the city’s reputation as a hub for ecological preservation.
What County Is Baraboo, WI In?
Baraboo is located in Sauk County, situated in the south-central region of Wisconsin. Sauk County is known for its rolling hills, farmland, and picturesque river valleys. Baraboo serves as the county seat, housing various administrative offices and public institutions, including educational centers like the University of Wisconsin–Baraboo/Sauk County, which has since been integrated into the University of Wisconsin–Platteville system as part of a state-wide restructuring of the UW Colleges.
What Is UW–Platteville Known For?
The University of Wisconsin–Platteville is widely recognized for its strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, as well as its hands-on learning environment. It’s particularly known for excellence in the following areas:
1. Engineering Programs
UW–Platteville’s College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science is among the most respected engineering schools in the Midwest. The university is nationally recognized for its programs in:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
Students benefit from cutting-edge labs, internships with industry partners, and project-based learning that prepares them for real-world challenges.
2. Criminal Justice and Forensics
The Criminal Justice program at UW–Platteville is one of the largest in the country, offering specialized tracks in law enforcement, corrections, forensic investigation, and homeland security. The curriculum is rooted in practical application and supported by partnerships with federal and state agencies.
3. Business and Agriculture
- The School of Business offers programs in finance, marketing, supply chain management, and entrepreneurship.
- The university also has a long-standing tradition in agricultural sciences, reflecting Wisconsin’s heritage as a farming state.
4. Online Education
UW–Platteville has pioneered online degree programs, particularly in engineering and business, making education accessible for non-traditional and international students.
How Many Students Go to Platteville College?
The University of Wisconsin–Platteville serves approximately 7,000 to 8,000 students annually across its campuses. The main campus in Platteville hosts the majority of these students, while branch campuses like UW–Platteville Baraboo Sauk County offer smaller, more intimate learning environments that serve as stepping stones to four-year degrees.
Enrollment Breakdown
- Main Campus (Platteville): ~6,000–7,000 students
- Branch Campuses (Baraboo & Richland): ~300–500 students each (prior to restructuring)
- The student body includes undergraduate, graduate, and online learners, with a growing number of international students each year.
The Role of UW–Baraboo/Sauk County in the UW System
The UW–Baraboo/Sauk County campus, now known as UW–Platteville Baraboo Sauk County, continues to offer high-quality, affordable education to students in the Sauk County region. It functions as a two-year campus, where students can complete general education courses before transferring to a four-year degree program, either at UW–Platteville or other institutions.
Benefits of Attending UW–Platteville Baraboo Sauk County
- Smaller class sizes and more personalized attention
- Lower tuition costs compared to four-year institutions
- Strong community connections and regional engagement
- Easy transition to a bachelor’s program at UW–Platteville or elsewhere within the UW System
This campus acts as a gateway to higher education for many first-generation college students, non-traditional learners, and those looking to remain close to home while beginning their academic journey.
