Academic Programs & Learning
Academic quality, retention, and learning environment at Western Technical College in La Crosse, WI.
What About Academic Quality at Western Technical College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
9:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
45%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
49%
Part-time students continuing
How Western Technical College Compares
45% retention is below the typical trade-college range (most schools run 50% or higher). The 9:1 student-faculty ratio and 49% part-time retention provide additional context, but the headline number is worth understanding before committing — ask Western Technical College what kinds of students typically succeed here, and what supports are in place.
Understanding Academic Quality Metrics
Student-Faculty Ratio: A ratio of 9:1 means there are approximately 9 students for every faculty member. This low ratio typically allows for more individualized attention and smaller class sizes.
Retention Rates: These show the percentage of students who return for their second year. Higher retention rates typically indicate student satisfaction, academic support, and program quality.
Graduation Rate Survey Cohort: 34% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Western Technical College?
Tenure Status
Academic Ranks
Understanding Faculty Composition
With 179 instructors, Western Technical College supports both research-oriented and teaching-focused academic programs. The 97% tenure rate indicates a blend of experienced career faculty and newer educators.
How Successful Are Students at Western Technical College?
Student Retention Rates
Retention Rate Comparison
New full-time students returning for second year
New part-time students returning for second year
Cohort Information
Student Success Analysis
Full-Time Success:45% retention rate indicates opportunities to enhance student support services.
Retention Impact: Higher retention rates indicate student satisfaction, academic success, and effective institutional support systems.
With a 45% retention rate, Western Technical College faces challenges in keeping students enrolled. Connecting with current students or alumni can provide valuable perspective.
Where Do Online Students at Western Technical College Come From?
Geographic distribution of students enrolled exclusively in online courses (Fall 2024 census)
Where exclusively-online students are located
About this data: The geographic breakdown above uses IPEDS Fall Enrollment census data, which captures a single-day snapshot. The enrollment figures in the "How Do Students Learn?" section above use 12-month unduplicated headcount, which typically shows higher numbers as it covers the full academic year. Both are official IPEDS data — they measure different things.
92% of Western Technical College's exclusively online students are located in WI. The school primarily serves local online learners.
What Is the Academic Load at Western Technical College?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:72.2% FTE ratio indicates many students attend part-time
Academic Load: FTE represents the equivalent of full-time students based on credit hours, helping compare institutional capacity regardless of part-time enrollment.
The FTE figure at Western Technical College gives a standardized view of enrollment by accounting for both full-time and part-time students in a single metric.
How Intensively Do Students Study at Western Technical College?
Student Enrollment Intensity
The Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) ratio shows the average course load intensity. An FTE ratio of 1.0 means all students attend full-time, while lower values indicate more part-time enrollment.
A mix of full-time and part-time students, offering flexibility for those balancing work, family, and education.
FTE represents student enrollment adjusted for course load. Two half-time students equal 1 FTE.
FTE Ratio Scale
Enrollment intensity at Western Technical College sits at 0.72 — a measure of how much of the student body is enrolled full-time versus part-time.
Academic Support & Resources
Academic Advising
Students have access to academic advisors who can help with course selection, degree planning, and career guidance. Contact the admissions office to learn about advising services.
Student Success Services
Many institutions offer tutoring, study groups, and academic success workshops. These resources help students develop study skills and overcome academic challenges.
For detailed information about academic support services, tutoring hours, and learning resources, contact Western Technical College directly at 6087859200 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1 supports personalized learning
- 179 instructional staff with 97% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students primarily from WI (92% in-state)
- Strong retention rates demonstrate student satisfaction and academic support
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Western Technical College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.