Persons enjoying each other's company away form the UWM campus.

At the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, the Off‑Campus Resource Center (OCRC) empowers students to succeed both academically and as engaged community members. Our mission is to support students who live off campus by fostering a sense of belonging and connection to both UWM and the Milwaukee community. Through OCRC’s focus on Community, Learning, Equity, and Sustainability, we provide intentional resources and guidance that assist students as they navigate off-campus housing, build relationships, and develop life-long skills to thrive as community-minded individuals.

Who We Serve

OCRC supports students navigating off‑campus living—from housing-seeking Panthers to everyday commuters. Whether you’re independent, international, or simply looking for a roommate or sublease, we’re here to help you feel confident, informed, and prepared.

What We Do

Educational Resources and Guidance
We provide step‑by‑step support through tools like the Rental Process Guide and the Preferred Tenant Program—an online, self‑paced course designed to help students understand leasing, budget wisely, and know their tenant rights.
Listings & Matchmaking
Through our partnership with College Pads and other platforms, we help students find housing options, compatible roommates, and available subleases in neighborhoods surrounding UWM.
Legal, Safety, and Specialized Support
We connect students to vital resources—from tenant rights and legal assistance to specialized help for commuters, international students, and those experiencing housing instability. Our goal is to ensure every student can live safely and sustainably off campus.

Our Values

Community: Cultivating a supportive campus and neighborhood community where students, both commuting and renting, feel connected, valued, and able to build meaningful relationships grounded in care and respect.

Learning: Empowering students to value lifelong learning and engagement in the community by providing educational resources and guidance that strengthen the skills to thrive as independent, responsible community members.

Equity: Ensuring all students have equitable access to opportunities, resources, and support by removing barriers that limit their ability to succeed on campus and in the community.

Sustainability: Encouraging students to make intentional choices that contribute to long-term environmental, societal, financial, and social wellbeing.