UW–Richland was one of thirteen freshman-sophomore liberal arts transfer campuses of the University of Wisconsin Colleges, and offered a general education associate degree.

[1] On November 22, 2022 the University of Wisconsin System announced plans to end in-person classes at the campus, citing enrollment declines.

Many UW–Richland students earned a Associate of Arts and Science degree or use the Guaranteed Transfer Program, under which students were guaranteed admission to a four-year University of Wisconsin System campus of their choice if they met certain academic requirements.

Starting in the mid-1980s, UW–Richland was a partner in several international programs, bringing students from around the world to Richland Center to live and learn.

UW–Richland's mascot was the Roadrunner and school colors were royal blue and white, with red accents.