The University of Wisconsin–River Falls Teaching Program is the flagship program for the College of Education and Professional Studies at UWRF. The University of Wisconsin–River Falls was founded in 1874. The University of Wisconsin–River Falls' main purpose when first created was to prepare people to have careers in teaching. Over time the demand for more studies increased and UWRF incorporated liberal and fine arts. The University of Wisconsin–River Falls became a part of the University of Wisconsin system in 1971. This University also has a history of being loved by its community. In 1897 the Normal school was destroyed by a fire and only a half of day of classes was missed due to the community opening up churches, rooms, and other places to meet so classes could continue.