Accredited Degree Programs, Scholarships and Resources for Top Schools
With more than 280,000 students enrolled in Wisconsin's public schools, and another 70,000+ pursuing degrees from private institutions, the state contains many individuals intent on advancing their education, despite declining enrollment trends since the Great Recession. A part of the state's master education plan to enroll more students is to create more flexible education and transfer options for Wisconsin's non-traditional students. One answer may be online education, which can offer the flexibility and affordability Wisconsin's learners are looking for. We'll cover which colleges are offering the best online education in Wisconsin and answer students' frequently asked questions about paying for an online degree in Wisconsin below.
Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin
Prospective students can select from a variety of online schools and colleges in Wisconsin. Most Wisconsin institutions report declining student enrollment due to potential factors like fewer graduating high school seniors and financial obstacles. However, a college degree helps professionals advance their careers and qualify for higher salaries.
The flexibility of online programs allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal obligations. This guide covers the best online colleges in Wisconsin to help students find the right program for their needs. It also covers financial aid opportunities, the importance of accreditation, and programs and resources for adult learners.
These rankings include
#1 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online programs from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point provide field-specific training to prepare enrollees for careers in their chosen industry. The school offers five online programs and enrolls 3,173 distance learners based throughout the country. The flexibility of online learning allows current professionals to complete assignments around their work schedule.
Online enrollees who take opportunities to connect with peers may leverage their network to access job opportunities after graduation. Degree-seekers can collaborate on original research projects and pursue experiential learning opportunities such as internships. Career services prepare students to obtain a job in their field after graduation.
Degree-seekers can access career services for help choosing the best professional path. By attending job fairs and career workshops, learners can create a plan to reach their professional goals after graduation.
Program costs vary based on the student's field. Applicants can discuss the exact cost of earning a degree with an admissions counselor. Enrollees often pursue institutional funding and scholarships from third-party organizations.
#2 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
La Crosse, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners with busy schedules can access flexible academic options through University of Wisconsin-La Crosse's online programs. In addition to programs at its La Crosse campus, the school offers seven academic options in an online format. The institution enrolls 3,129 online degree-seekers.
The school fosters a strong online learning community, featuring collaborative opportunities. Participants learn alongside colleagues and communicate through email, chat, and discussion boards. In addition to completing internships, students can conduct original research to gain professional experience and impress employers after graduation. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. Enrollees can attend career workshops and job fairs to explore their professional options.
To reduce the financial burden of higher education, eligible students can apply for financial aid. Many organizations, such as professional associations, offer scholarships to learners in certain fields. To fund their education, 78% of the institution's enrollees receive financial aid.
#3 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Milwaukee, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With programs in various fields, Wisconsin Lutheran College's online degrees help enrollees gain the education they need to succeed in many professional roles. Of the school's academic programs, 13 are available in an online format. Students who want to work full time while in school often choose online programs, which feature higher levels of flexibility than on-campus options.
Distance learners who take opportunities to connect with peers may leverage their network to access job opportunities after graduation. Experiential learning opportunities include internships and original research projects. Students can access academic advising to ensure they remain on track to graduate. Learners find support and guidance as they near the end of their program and have the option to participate in career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs.
Some classes require additional fees. An admissions counselor can help applicants calculate their exact program cost. In addition to institutional funding, enrollees can apply for private scholarships based on their field and background.
#4 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For online students, University of Wisconsin-Madison delivers top-quality distance programs that meet the same educational standards as in-person programs. Based in Madison, the school educates 8,064 remote enrollees through four online programs. Working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities often choose online programs.
Like on-campus students, those pursuing a degree online receive opportunities to develop connections with classmates and instructors. Learners receive opportunities to collaborate on research projects with professors, bolstering their resume and preparing for careers in their field. Enrollees can discuss their professional prospects with departmental academic advisors and the institution's career counselors. Students nearing degree completion can use options including career workshops and mock interviews to improve their qualifications and expand their professional network.
Financial aid counselors help applicants understand their funding options and more easily afford higher education. The federal government supports enrollees with financial need through loans, grants, and work-study programs. The school indicates that 61% of students receive financial aid.
#5 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Cardinal Stritch University
Milwaukee, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cardinal Stritch University's online offerings deliver exceptional academic quality and increased scheduling flexibility. Based in Milwaukee, the school offers 12 online programs for distance students. Of the institution's enrollees, 532 study in an online format.
Degree-seekers can access support and resources through the online learning community. Participants learn alongside colleagues and communicate through email, chat, and discussion boards. Students can complete research projects to contribute to the field while improving their resume in preparation for their job search. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. Professional resources include mock interviews and resume assistance.
The federal government provides funding to support students with financial need. Many organizations, such as professional associations, offer scholarships to learners in certain fields. The institution reports that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
#6 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Superior
Superior, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Superior's offerings include top-quality academic programming, which learners can access in person or online. Busy students with personal or professional responsibilities often pursue one of the public institution's nine online programs. These programs often require no set class times or in-person components, making them ideal for learners with other responsibilities.
Online enrollees can participate in forum discussions and group projects. Academic opportunities often include research projects, internships, and independent studies. Learners can benefit from consulting departmental advisors to ensure they are on track to meet their academic goals.
Along with third-party scholarships, degree-seekers can apply for institutional funding to make earning a degree more affordable. To understand their financial aid options, students can contact the institution's financial aid office. Financial aid helps 76% of the school's enrollees cover their educational costs.
#7 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Platteville, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Platteville is a leader in online education. With seven online programs, the school provides a variety of academic options for its 1,475 online enrollees. Working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities often choose online programs.
Distance learners can connect with peers and professors through forums and email. Degree candidates can pursue internships and complete research projects to develop field-specific skills and enhance their resume. Enrollees can access institutional resources such as academic and career guidance, which help individuals succeed in their program and profession. Career workshops provide opportunities for students to explore their job prospects before graduation.
Financial aid counselors assist applicants with locating the best funding options to minimize student debt and reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. Enrollees often receive scholarships from third parties such as professional organizations and private donors. Of the school's students, 86% receive financial aid of some type.
#8 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Maranatha Baptist University
Watertown, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Maranatha Baptist University offers high-quality online academic programs for enrollees studying various fields. The school's offerings include 19 online programs, through which 382 learners pursue their degree. With flexible scheduling options, the institution's online programs make higher education more accessible for students with families and full-time employment.
Enrollees connect with classmates and faculty members through a virtual classroom environment. Experiential learning opportunities include internships and original research projects. Institutional resources, including career services and academic advising, encourage academic and professional success among online students. To prepare to secure employment after graduation, learners can participate in career workshops and mock interviews.
In addition to tuition, enrollees may need to pay technology fees, graduation fees, and lab fees. Applicants should speak with an admissions counselor to determine exact costs. To minimize student debt, degree-seekers should apply for any funding for which they are eligible, including federal aid, scholarships, and institutional awards.
#9 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Marian University
Fond Du Lac, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students who plan to attend school online can consider Marian University's remote academic programs. With 25 online programs, the private school also offers on-campus programs in Fond Du Lac. To succeed in their online program, the institution's 422 distance learners can take advantage of virtual resources, such as digital library materials.
In the virtual classroom environment, enrollees can request individual assistance from instructors. After completing general education requirements, learners take advanced classes in their area of interest. Students consult with academic advisors to choose elective classes that align with their academic and professional goals. Enrollees can also collaborate with faculty members on research projects and independently pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their studies.
To reduce the financial burden of earning a degree, applicants should explore their funding options and contact the financial aid office. Students can apply for need-based and merit-based awards.
#10 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Lakeland University
Plymouth, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Enrollees at Lakeland University can study on campus or through online academic programs. Learners can earn a degree through the school's 14 online programs without relocating or commuting to campus. Working professionals often choose to study online so they can complete coursework on evenings and weekends.
Online enrollees who take opportunities to connect with peers may leverage their network to access job opportunities after graduation. Many employers accept internships as professional experience, which can make candidates more competitive for positions. Institutional resources, including career services and academic advising, help students succeed in their online program. Learners find support and guidance as they near the end of their program and have the option to participate in career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs.
Students should expect to pay varying fees and costs based on their program and course selections. Applicants can contact an admissions counselor for details about program costs. Enrollees often pursue institutional funding and scholarships from third-party organizations.
#11 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Kenosha, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
An excellent choice for online students, University of Wisconsin-Parkside offers high-quality remote academic programs. Delivering five online programs in various fields, the school educates 2,055 online enrollees, in addition to those studying on campus in Kenosha. The flexibility of online programs can benefit learners with personal and professional responsibilities.
Degree candidates can connect with peers and professors through forums and email. Learners can pursue internships and complete research projects to develop field-specific skills and enhance their resume. Institutional resources include academic and career guidance, which help enrollees stay on track to graduate and prepare for the workforce. Mock interviews allow students to practice their interpersonal skills and improve their chance of landing a job after graduation.
Financial aid counselors help applicants understand their funding options and more easily afford higher education. Enrollees often receive scholarships from third parties such as professional organizations and private donors. The school reports that 81% of its students receive some form of financial aid.
#12 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students attending Milwaukee Area Technical College can choose from online and in-person academic programs. Along with 21 online programs, the public school delivers in-person classes at its campus in Milwaukee. While studying remotely, the institution's 4,285 online learners complete rigorous coursework to prepare for the workforce.
Online enrollees connect with fellow colleagues, faculty members, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. Curricula feature general education coursework and advanced classes to help learners gain transferable and field-specific skills. Academic advisors help students customize their program based on their goals, while ensuring they remain on track to graduate. Enrollees can complete experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships, to gain professional experience.
The financial aid office provides information about degree costs and funding options to help applicants create a budget. In addition to institutional funding, students may receive awards from third-party organizations or the federal government.
#13 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Moraine Park Technical College
Fond du Lac, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Moraine Park Technical College is a leader in online education. Along with educating enrollees at its Fond du Lac-based campus, the school offers 10 distance programs for its 1,254 online enrollees. Learners from all walks of life can benefit from the flexibility guaranteed by an online education.
Through chat, email, and discussion forums, online students receive opportunities to discuss course material and connect with peers. Learners can pursue internships and complete research projects to develop field-specific skills and enhance their resume. Academic advisors assist degree candidates with course enrollment and provide insights into the field. During career workshops, students can explore professional opportunities aligning with their academic background.
Applicants who need help understanding various funding options can receive help from the institution's dedicated financial aid counselors. Enrollees can apply for a variety of funding options, including private scholarships and federal grants, to improve their chances of receiving an award. Of the school's student body, 69% qualify for some form of financial aid.
#14 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Mount Mary University
Milwaukee, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mount Mary University's academic options include top-quality online programs that prepare enrollees to succeed in their chosen profession. Learners can earn a degree through the school's three online programs without relocating or commuting to campus. The institution's online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can be ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities.
Enrollees can communicate with peers and faculty through the online learning platform. Many employers accept internships as professional experience, which can make candidates more competitive for positions. Academic advisors provide support and guidance for online students throughout their program. Job fairs provide opportunities for learners to network and explore potential employment opportunities.
Online students may need to pay an additional technology fee. An admissions counselor can help applicants calculate their exact program cost. Scholarship and grant programs help enrollees reduce out-of-pocket expenses and student debt.
#15 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Nicolet Area Technical College
Rhinelander, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Remote enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community. Participants can collaborate with peers and instructors while conducting original research. The institution's academic and career advisors help learners reach their academic and professional goals.
To pay for their education, degree-seekers can consider institutional aid and external funding, such as federal loans and private scholarship programs. Students can discuss their financial aid options with the institution's financial aid officers. At the school, 81% of enrollees obtain financial aid to help cover the cost of earning a degree.
#16 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Northcentral Technical College
Wausau, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With exceptional flexibility for busy learners, Northcentral Technical College's online programs are ideal for working professionals. The school delivers 62 online programs, along with on-campus options in Wausau. The institution delivers its remote programming to 3,259 online enrollees.
The online learning community allows remote students to collaborate with peers through discussion boards and email. Tools such as videoconferencing and discussion boards allow participants to communicate with peers. Students can pursue internships and research projects to enhance their resume while completing their program. With online resources such as academic advising and tutoring, the institution supports online learners. Enrollees can benefit from career services including mock interviews and job fairs.
By submitting the FAFSA, students can determine whether they qualify for federal funding. Learners may qualify for many types of funding, including grants, scholarships, and fellowships. To help pay for their educational program, 70% of enrollees receive financial aid, according to the institution.
#17 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Green Bay, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, learners can choose from top-quality online academic programs in various fields. Degree-seekers in many fields of study can find suitable options in the school's 18 online programs. Of the institution's enrollees, 3,221 attend classes online.
The online learning community allows remote students to collaborate with peers through discussion boards and email. Participants learn alongside colleagues in a virtual classroom environment. Online students can pursue internships at facilities near their home. Degree candidates can access institutional resources such as academic advising. Professional resources include mock interviews and resume assistance.
Financial aid helps many students minimize debt and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. To receive the most funding possible, learners can apply for scholarships, grants, fellowships, and any other awards for which they qualify. To defray educational costs, 68% of enrollees receive financial aid of some type, according to the institution's statistics.
#18 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Ottawa University-Milwaukee
Brookfield, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For a premier educational experience, online learners can attend Ottawa University-Milwaukee. Students who prefer to learn online can select one of the private institution's 20 distance programs. Online learning features flexible course formats, which often benefit working professionals who need to study according to their schedule.
A supportive online learning community helps online enrollees succeed. Participants can develop practical skills through experiential learning opportunities, such as research collaborations with peers. Career services, such as job boards and mock interviews, help learners prepare to secure professional positions after earning their degree.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal scholarships, grants, and loans. Financial aid officers provide information about options students can use to fund their education, such as scholarships and fellowships.
#19 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Fennimore, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Many online classes feature group projects, which require enrollees to communicate virtually with classmates. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, allow degree-seekers to gain practical skills in their field. Students can access academic advising to ensure they remain on track to graduate. Career resources include job fairs, career workshops, and resume assistance, which help learners prepare to secure a position in their field.
Each program features unique costs and expenses. Admissions counselors can provide details about program fees and the overall cost of earning a degree. In addition to institutional funding, enrollees can apply for private scholarships based on their field and background.
#20 Online Schools and Colleges in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex
Milwaukee, WI - 4 years
- Online
Working professionals and learners with personal responsibilities can earn a degree from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex in a flexible online format. The school delivers five online programs, along with on-campus options in Milwaukee. The institution's enrollment includes online degree-seekers who take classes remotely.
Online students can work with peers on group projects. Online learning allows participants to network with peers throughout the country. Students can collaborate with professors on original research projects and can pursue internships with local organizations. With online resources such as academic advising and tutoring, the institution supports online learners. Enrollees gain professional and academic guidance through career workshops, mock interviews, and access to career services and academic advising.
Financial aid helps many students minimize debt and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Along with providing information about institutional funding, the school's financial aid office can help learners explore additional funding options, such as third-party scholarships.
City Spotlight: Colleges in Wisconsin
Milwaukee, WI
Eau Claire, WI
Located about 85 miles from Minneapolis, Eau Claire is a populous city and the sixth largest in the state. Postsecondary institutions in Eau Claire include a large public university as well as technical colleges and a private Christian college. Several area schools, including the University of Wisconsin, offer distance education programs serving online students.
Colleges and Universities in Eau Claire
COLLEGE | SIZE | TUITION | TYPE |
---|---|---|---|
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | 12,908 | $6,733 | Public |
Chippewa Valley Technical College | 8,481 | $3,356 | Public |
Green Bay, WI
The oldest city in Wisconsin, Green Bay offers a selection of different postsecondary institutions. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 86 percent of Green Bay Area residents have pursued academic or technical training after high school, and over 21 percent have earned a bachelor's degree or higher — but the state of Wisconsin plans to bump those numbers even higher. Green Bay's robust selection of on-campus and web-based studies mirrors the state's goal to provide more online education programs as one means of creating a better-qualified workforce.
Colleges and Universities in Green Bay
COLLEGE | SIZE | TUITION | TYPE |
---|---|---|---|
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | 7,926 | $5,970 | Public |
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College | 14,910 | $3,355 | Public |
Madison, WI
Madison, the State Capital of Wisconsin, is home to 240,000 residents who work and study in what is affectionately called “Mad City”. This vibrant community plays host to 6,000 acres of parkland, 65 craft breweries, 15,000 acres of lakes, and a bustling medical center with physicians that performed the first-ever human heart transplant. Dotted with commercial and arts centers, connected by bicycle trails, and mill centers, Madison values higher education. According to the U.S. Census, more than 53 percent of Madison residents over the age of 25 have completed at least a bachelor's degree. The city's rich artistic culture, resplendent lakefront setting, and growing health and biotech sectors make Mad City a destination of choice for students and workers alike.
Colleges and Universities in Madison
COLLEGE | SIZE | TUITION | TYPE |
---|---|---|---|
University of Wisconsin-Madison | 46,756 | $8,592 | Public |
Madison Area Technical College | 24,550 | $3,356 | Public |
Edgewood College | 3,949 | $22,850 | Not For Profit (Private) |
University of Wisconsin Colleges | 18,975 | $4,503 | Public |
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Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I'm Looking for in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin offers more than 71 colleges and universities, so choosing the right program may feel overwhelming. To narrow their search, students can research accredited programs in the state through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and College Navigator. Students can also find information on accredited Wisconsin schools through the following resource.
How Much More Do College Grads in Wisconsin Make?
Pursuing a degree typically increases a professional's career opportunities and earning potential. As the following table illustrates, professionals earn higher salaries, on average, with each level of educational attainment they achieve.
LESS THAN A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA | HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA | ASSOCIATE DEGREE |
---|---|---|
$28,756 | $37,960 | $44,824 |
BACHELOR'S DEGREE | MASTER'S DEGREE | DOCTORAL DEGREE |
---|---|---|
$62,296 | $74,568 | $94,900 |
Paying for Online College in Wisconsin: Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition for online schools and colleges in Wisconsin varies by factors like institution type and residency status. Students at public universities in the state typically save on tuition compared to the national average, but private school students in Wisconsin pay higher-than-average tuition rates. The following tables compare average tuition costs in Wisconsin to national averages.
IN-STATE TUITION | OUT-OF-STATE TUITION | NATIONAL AVERAGE |
---|---|---|
$7,924 | $20,061 | $9,037 (In-State)$25,657 (Out-of-State) |
TUITION | OUT-OF-STATE TUITION | NATIONAL AVERAGE |
---|---|---|
$33,156 | N/A | $30,731 |
Cost Considerations for Online Students in Wisconsin
Students should consider education expenses beyond tuition, such as technology and travel costs. The following list outlines several important cost considerations for online students.
- Tuition Reciprocity Agreements
- Tuition reciprocity agreements allow students from qualifying out-of-state programs to pay in-state tuition rates. Wisconsin currently holds an agreement with Minnesota, but some schools may hold additional agreements.
- Travel Expenses
- Some online programs include on-campus requirements, which may necessitate that students pay for airfare and room and board.
- Flat Tuition Rates
- Some schools offer flat tuition rates for all online students regardless of where they live, while others offer tuition discounts to in-state students.
- Technology Fees
- Online programs may require that students pay technology fees to cover the costs of online course administration.
- Courseload
- Tuition rates may vary for full-time and part-time students. At many schools, full-time students save on tuition compared to part-time students.
Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Wisconsin
Qualifications for in-state tuition vary by program, but they may include graduating from a Wisconsin high school or living in the state for at least one year prior to enrollment. Students may need to provide proof of residency in the form of bank or credit card statements, utility bills, or government-issued ID.
However, some schools allow all online students to pay in-state tuition rates regardless of where they live, so students should research the requirements at each prospective program.
Paying for College in Wisconsin: Scholarships and Financial Aid
Online students in Wisconsin can take advantage of many financial aid opportunities to help offset the costs of their education, such as loans, scholarships, and grants. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not require repayment. We cover several scholarship and grant opportunities for Wisconsin students below.
Scholarships for Wisconsin College Students
Academic Excellence Scholarship
Technical Excellence Scholarship
Wisconsin Women's Alliance Foundation Scholarship
The Wisconsin Towns Association
UW Credit Union Community Values Scholarship
Grants for West Virginia College Students
Talent Incentive Program Grant
Wisconsin Grant
Federal Pell Grant
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
Wisconsin Grant - Private Nonprofit
The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Wisconsin
Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic rigor. Only students attending an accredited school qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only recognize and accept transfer credit and degrees from accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree.
- Regional and National Accreditation
- Schools may hold regional or national accreditation. National accreditation typically applies to for-profit, vocational and technical schools, while regional accreditation applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Several independent regional accrediting bodies accredit schools based on where the school is located. The Higher Learning Commission accredits Wisconsin schools.
- Subject-Specific Accreditation
- Certain programs within a school may also receive accreditation, such as business and psychology programs. The American Psychological Association accredits psychology programs, while the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accredits business programs. Some careers, such as nursing, require professionals to hold a degree from an accredited program to qualify for licensure or certification. Students should research the accreditation requirements of their intended career path.
- How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
- Most schools and programs feature their accreditation status on their website. Students can also search for a program or school's accreditation status through the CHEA directoryand the Department of Education's database
Online College and Adult Education in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers a variety of resources and programs to help adult learners pursue an education. We cover several of these opportunities in the following sections.
By the Numbers: Adult Education in Wisconsin
29.5%
of Wisconsin residents over the age of 25 hold a bachelor's degree or higher
Wisconsin Students
25% of Wisconsin students take at least one online course and about 10% take exclusively online courses
Online Degree Programs
Students can select from 102 fully online degree programs in Wisconsin
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Center for Online Education, Affordable Colleges
Adult Education Programs for Wisconsin Students
- Midwestern Higher Education Compact
- Wisconsin is one of 12 states participating in this compact, which aims to increase access to higher education through programs that offer tuition discounts and other benefits to students. Adult Basic Education: The Wisconsin Technical College System offers ABE courses that help adults meet high school equivalency standards and prepare for postsecondary education. The program is available at participating accredited schools in Wisconsin. Nextdoor Milwaukee: This program offers free courses to help students earn their GED credential and pass standardized tests, such as the SAT and ACT.
- Adult Basic Education
- The Wisconsin Technical College System offers ABE courses that help adults meet high school equivalency standards and prepare for postsecondary education. The program is available at participating accredited schools in Wisconsin.
- Nextdoor Milwaukee
- This program offers free courses to help students earn their GED credential and pass standardized tests, such as the SAT and ACT.
Online College Resources for Wisconsin Students
Current and prospective students in Wisconsin can take advantage of a variety of resources to support their studies. The following resources offer information on topics like financial aid opportunities, accredited programs, and educational standards in Wisconsin.
-
College Navigator
The National Center for Education Statistics maintains this directory, which allows students to search for colleges by state, type of degree, available programs, and institution type. -
College Scorecard
This tool from the U.S. Department of Education allows students to search and compare colleges by factors like cost, admission requirements, and graduation rates. -
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
This tool allows Wisconsin students to explore school standards, resources, and programs in the state. The site is particularly beneficial for current high school students considering a college education. -
State of Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board
This organization manages the state's financial aid system. Users can access information on financial aid opportunities and loan forgiveness programs. The site also links users to external financial resources and application information. -
College Confidential
Students can use this site to search for schools by state, program, and degree type. The website also offers career, admissions, and financial aid guidance.