Here at Lawrence, we speak of light often. Light, illumination, brilliance. The concept comes from the motto on our seal: Light! More Light! Veritas est lux. Truth is light.


Lawrence’s 1,500 students come from nearly every state and 40 countries and share their light in an engaged—and engaging—community. Whether they choose to study in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences or the Conservatory of Music, both dedicated exclusively to undergraduate education, Lawrentians find a welcoming community of scholars and artists. And with one of the smallest student-faculty ratios in the country (8:1), they have unparalleled opportunities to collaborate closely with professors. We are committed to challenging and illuminating educational experiences that give students the knowledge and tools to identify their passion, find their light, and impact the world.

Historical photo of Main Hall Cupola decorated for homecoming

Excellence & Integrity 


Since its founding in 1847, Lawrence has pursued excellence and integrity in all endeavors. We live this mission every day as we help our students seek the light of knowledge and understanding. It informs our values as we strive to become a more diverse, welcoming, and sustainable community.

Laurie Carter sitting on a blue chair

Our Leadership


A strategic and dedicated leader in higher education, President Laurie A. Carter joined the Lawrence community in July 2021 as the university’s 17th president. Along with her President’s Cabinet and Board of Trustees, she oversees Lawrence’s mission and goals.

Aerial drone photo of Lawrence and Appleton
Lawrence History

Providing a transformative education for 175 years

1st

Co-educational school in Wisconsin 

88

Acres along the beautiful Fox River

1874

Year the Conservatory of Music was founded 

Students work with chemistry professor Stefan Gebbert in class.

Awards, Rankings, & Recognition


From Best Undergraduate Teaching to Grateful Grads and awards and honors, we are proud of the transformative and illuminating education and experiences Lawrence provides its students.

Band performing during Appleton's summer concert series

Appleton & the Fox Cities  


With a vibrant performing arts community, easy access to rivers and trails, and one of the nation’s most beloved sports teams (think green and gold) less than an hour away, Appleton is the cultural and commercial heart of the Fox Cities. 

Student vocalist performs at LUaRoo

Who We Are 


We are curious and creative. We are welcoming and supportive. We are students, faculty, staff, and alumni. We are Lawrentians. Our collective experiences showcase the best of our vibrant and engaging community.

Image of a mortar board with text that reads, "the adventures start now"

Live the Life You Love

Lawrence graduates seek fulfilling employment, enroll in top graduate and professional programs, and pursue impactful service work. They also join an alumni network of 20,000 Lawrentians as they continue their journey of professional and personal fulfillment.   

The Warch Campus Center and Sage Hall stick out among the changing fall colors along the Fox River at sunset

Getting to Campus


Whether you are coming to campus to attend a Conservatory concert or cheer on the Vikings, returning after summer break, or visiting for the first time, Lawrence is easily accessible no matter where you call home.

Our virtual tour gives you a window into the world of Lawrence University... all on your own schedule. 

Learn More About Lawrence

Lawrence University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

NASM Accredited logo

Lawrence University is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (nasm.arts-accredit.org), the national accreditation agency for music and music-related disciplines.