Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Nalea J. Ko
By
Updated on March 21, 2025
Edited by
Discover how to find Wisconsin online colleges that align with your personal goals, professional aspirations, and scheduling needs with this helpful guide.

With more than 280,000 students enrolled in Wisconsin’s public schools and another 70,000+ pursuing degrees from private institutions, the Badger State is home to many individuals looking to advance their education, despite declining enrollment trends since the Great Recession. The state aims 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 need.

Use our ranking of Wisconsin online colleges to find the best accredited college for you. This guide covers the importance of accreditation and includes resources for college-bound Wisconsinites.

Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site

What Colleges Are Accredited in Wisconsin?

Attending an accredited college means you can expect quality academics and faculty. In Wisconsin, the Higher Learning Commission, a private accredited agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), grants accreditation to colleges and universities.

Institutional Accreditation

Institutional accreditation evaluates a school’s curricular offerings, faculty members, resources, and outcomes. Attending an accredited school allows you to receive federal financial aid and qualify for credit transfers between schools.

Subject-Specific Accreditation

In addition to institutional accreditation, CHEA recognizes programmatic accreditors. Attending an accredited program demonstrates to employers and licensing boards that you have undergone suitable academic training for your chosen career.

There are various programmatic accreditors across industries. For instance, aviation programs receive accreditation from the Aviation Accreditation Board International, and counseling programs can be accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

Top Accredited Wisconsin Online Colleges

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

  • Location-markerStevens Point, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,698
  • Out-of-state$15,402
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,066
  • Out-of-state$17,706
  • Retention Rate75%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled8,332
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment38%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

  • Location-markerLa Crosse, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,585
  • Out-of-state$16,404
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,651
  • Out-of-state$18,637
  • Retention Rate84%
  • Acceptance Rate73%
  • Students Enrolled10,623
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment29%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Lutheran College

  • Location-markerMilwaukee, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$30,406
  • Out-of-state$30,406
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,810
  • Out-of-state$9,810
  • Retention Rate76%
  • Acceptance Rate89%
  • Students Enrolled1,148
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment15%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Madison

  • Location-markerMadison, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,273
  • Out-of-state$36,333
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,728
  • Out-of-state$24,054
  • Retention Rate95%
  • Acceptance Rate54%
  • Students Enrolled44,257
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment18%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Cardinal Stritch University

  • Location-markerMilwaukee, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$31,798
  • Out-of-state$31,798
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,880
  • Out-of-state$10,880
  • Retention Rate60%
  • Acceptance Rate81%
  • Students Enrolled1,896
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment28%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Superior

  • Location-markerSuperior, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,535
  • Out-of-state$14,108
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,640
  • Out-of-state$16,771
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance Rate82%
  • Students Enrolled2,614
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Platteville

  • Location-markerPlatteville, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,418
  • Out-of-state$14,268
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,640
  • Out-of-state$16,771
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled8,271
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment18%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Maranatha Baptist University

  • Location-markerWatertown, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$15,480
  • Out-of-state$15,480
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,840
  • Out-of-state$6,840
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled985
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment39%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Marian University

  • Location-markerFond Du Lac, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$27,500
  • Out-of-state$27,500
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,800
  • Out-of-state$10,800
  • Retention Rate68%
  • Acceptance Rate65%
  • Students Enrolled1,656
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment25%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Lakeland University

  • Location-markerPlymouth, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$28,576
  • Out-of-state$28,576
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,286
  • Out-of-state$11,286
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance Rate78%
  • Students Enrolled2,511
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment41%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Parkside

  • Location-markerKenosha, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,298
  • Out-of-state$14,568
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,028
  • Out-of-state$17,622
  • Retention Rate73%
  • Acceptance Rate66%
  • Students Enrolled4,388
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Milwaukee Area Technical College

  • Location-markerMilwaukee, WI
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,095
  • Out-of-state$6,143
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate58%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled14,482
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment30%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Moraine Park Technical College

  • Location-markerFond du Lac, WI
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,102
  • Out-of-state$5,547
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate73%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled4,061
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment31%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Mount Mary University

  • Location-markerMilwaukee, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$30,550
  • Out-of-state$30,550
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$14,952
  • Out-of-state$14,952
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance Rate58%
  • Students Enrolled1,246
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment44%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Nicolet Area Technical College

  • Location-markerRhinelander, WI
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Nicolet Area Technical College delivers high-quality academic programs on campus and online. The 532 online students attending the public institution can choose from 16 online programs. Online learning features flexible course formats, which often benefit working professionals who need to study according to their schedule.

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,102
  • Out-of-state$6,153
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate63%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled1,258
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment42%
  • AccreditationYes
#16 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Northcentral Technical College

  • Location-markerWausau, WI
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,276
  • Out-of-state$4,914
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled6,177
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment53%
  • AccreditationYes
#17 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

  • Location-markerGreen Bay, WI
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,095
  • Out-of-state$6,143
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate63%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled11,225
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment29%
  • AccreditationYes
#18 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Ottawa University-Milwaukee

  • Location-markerBrookfield, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$11,976
  • Out-of-state$11,976
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,430
  • Out-of-state$11,430
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled236
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
#19 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College

  • Location-markerFennimore, WI
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College’s top-quality online programs deliver excellent academic preparation for the workforce and further studies. Learners throughout the country can pursue the school's 11 online programs. Students who want to work full time while in school often choose online programs, which feature higher levels of flexibility than on-campus options.

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,095
  • Out-of-state$6,143
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate71%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,640
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment26%
  • AccreditationYes
#20 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex

  • Location-markerMilwaukee, WI
  • 4 year
  • 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. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,750
  • Out-of-state$6,750
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled602
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes

How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited

Most accredited schools and programs feature their accreditation status on their websites. Ensure that the school or program holds accreditation from an agency recognized by the ED or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The ED and CHEA maintain accreditation databases of recognized agencies and accredited schools.

The Impact of Accreditation When Transferring Credits

According to the National Student Clearinghouse, transfer students accounted for 13.2% of undergraduates nationwide as of 2023. You can maximize your time and money by transferring as many college credits as possible. Accredited colleges and universities in Wisconsin may not recognize credits from unaccredited schools.

Each college accepts a different maximum amount of transfer credits. For instance, University of Wisconsin Parkside accepts up to 72 credits, and Concordia University Wisconsin accepts up to 84 credits.

Accreditation Criteria for Licensing

Attending an accredited program is crucial to pursue careers in regulated industries like healthcare, engineering, and education. Particularly for programs that lead to licensure, programmatic accreditation ensures that the curriculum and experiential component meet industry expectations.

For example, nursing programs that get accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Teaching programs may hold National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education accreditation.

Choosing the Right Online College in Wisconsin

Without proper research, deciding on a college can be a risky investment. Before choosing a college major, make sure to take into account your career goals, interests, and the following factors:

1. Check Accreditation Status

Institutional and programmatic accreditation are crucial in maintaining academic standards across higher education. By attending an accredited college, you can protect your educational investment and ensure your eligibility for licensure and employability. With CHEA’s directories, you can easily find accredited programs and institutions.

2. Research Faculty Expertise

Your instructors play a crucial role in shaping your educational experience. You may want a nursing instructor who has clinical experience in your desired specialty area or a science professor with a robust portfolio of published papers. Study your college’s website and research the instructors to see if their backgrounds align with your academic interests.

3. Compare Financial Aid Offers

Financial aid packages differ at each college, particularly because not every school can receive federal funding. Students can receive state, federal, institutional, and private aid. While independent schools in the 2020-2021 school year distributed $242.5 million in institutional aid to Wisconsin resident undergraduates, University of Wisconsin colleges provided $73.6 million, according to the Wisconsin Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

4. Review Program Flexibility

Like colleges, online programs come in many variations. Research each program’s course delivery format to see if it’s fully online or hybrid. Find an online college in Wisconsin that matches your learning style. Remember — certain majors like counseling or teaching require in-person clinical hours, even if you study online.

5. Seek Out Support Services

Colleges support online learners by making tutoring, career, and library resources accessible. Support services vary by school. Research each school’s offerings, which may include student clubs and social events.

Online College Resources for Wisconsin Students

  • College Navigator

    The National Center for Education Statistics maintains this directory, which allows students to search for colleges by state, degree type, available programs, and institution type.
  • College Scorecard

    This tool allows students to search and compare colleges based on factors such as cost, admission requirements, and graduation rates.
  • Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

    This site allows Wisconsin students to explore school standards, resources, and programs in the state. It can benefit current high school students beginning to consider their 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.