Online Nursing Schools in Wisconsin: Choosing a Program
From certificates for early nursing careers to doctorates for executive leadership roles, Wisconsin has many programs for nurses who want to further their education. In this guide, we give examples for all types of nursing programs available, including accelerated and bridge programs. We also rank Wisconsin schools according to factors that are important to prospective students, and we talk about the career opportunities for nursing school graduates in the state. Learn more about your different nursing education options below.
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Inside Online Nursing Programs in Wisconsin
While there are still plenty of in-person nursing education programs in Wisconsin, there are also online programs that offer convenience for prospective students. These programs cover the gamut of degree and certificate types, from the starting route of a CNA through undergraduate and graduate degrees for RNs to a PhD or doctorate.
Most programs with online options are hybrid, with virtual classes paired with in-person classes, on-site clinicals and fieldwork at healthcare facilities, or lab work that’s on campus or at an independent site. The theoretical work can be completed remotely while the practical elements require physical participation.
Below, we highlight some of the best online nursing programs available in Wisconsin.
Undergraduate Nursing Degrees
Students who want a fast start to a nursing career can earn certificates to break into the industry with collaborative roles on a healthcare team. Beyond that, there are programs for more advanced bachelor’s degrees, which lead to more responsibility and pay. Here’s a look at what’s available in the state.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Students will learn the basics of becoming a CNA with programs that can include online courses and hands-on clinical experience. Ideal for students who want to enter the healthcare field with relative speed, this type of program prepares students to sit for the state certification exam.
Example: Bellin College
- Cost: $747
- Length: Six weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Becoming an LPN means that you will provide direct patient care under the supervision of doctors and RNs. For licensure, future LPNs will need to take and pass the NCLEX. LPN programs are often shorter than RN programs, making this option good for those wanting quick access into the field.
Example: Rasmussen University
- Cost: $20,104
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADN programs condense the necessary practical experience students need in a shorter timeframe, offering yet another faster route to becoming a nurse. These types of programs are also typically cheaper due to the faster timeline. ADN classes prepare students to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: Madison Area Technical College
- Cost: Tuition is $9,718
- Length: Two Years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs are ideal for future nurses who want to work in hospitals or in advanced nursing practice roles beyond the associate level. Classes will often include subjects such as human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, chemistry fundamentals, and nutrition and health, all featured in the following school.
Example: Joyce University
- Cost: Tuition is $72,580
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
An ABSN program is for students with a bachelor’s degree in any field who want to make the transition to the healthcare field and become a nurse. This degree path is faster when compared to traditional nursing programs, condensing the knowledge and experience necessary for success in your career.
Example: University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh
- Cost: Tuition is $48,224
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate Nursing Degree Programs
There are many hybrid and online programs available for Wisconsin nurses who have earned undergraduate degrees. Many of them cover specialties that are in demand in the workplace, including care for families, the elderly, and mental health patients. Here are some examples of what’s available in the state.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs elevate a nurse’s skills and knowledge past the BSN level. MSN curriculum can include courses in health care policy, communication skills, organizational behavior, evaluation methods, and fiscal management, all featured in the school below.
Example: University of Wisconsin – Green Bay
- Cost: $19,584
- Length: Two to four years
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Depending on your goals for graduate level nursing, consider a DNP or PhD in nursing. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is geared for those who want to have an impact on healthcare policy and initiatives, while the PhD in Nursing is for those who want to join academia or pursue research.
Example: University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Cost: Tuition ranges from $47,104 to $100,096, depending on each track
- Length: Two to four years, depending on each track
- Mode: Hybrid for advanced practice nursing tracks, online for non-clinical tracks
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-master’s certificate programs are for RNs with MSNs to advance their careers by focusing their expertise on a specialization without having to do a full degree program. These programs allow students to work in management roles or education.
Example: Marian University – Wisconsin
- Cost: $12,075
- Length: Two to three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Programs in Wisconsin
Bridge programs are best for nurses who want to earn a higher-level degree in a shorter amount of time, leveraging past work as part of the required credits. There are also bridge programs that are open to degree earners in other disciplines who want to try for nursing leadership roles.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
An LPN to RN or LPN to BSN bridge program is designed for current LPNs to take their skill set to the next level. More advanced care skills, health assessment, care management and evidence-based practice are some subjects that may be part of the curriculum, just like the school listed here.
Example: Herzing University – Brookfield
- Cost: Tuition is $22,650 if you are able to transfer up to 90 credits
- Length: 2.5 years
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
RN to BSN programs allow current RNs to pursue higher education and increase their earning potential. Some topics in the curriculum may include palliative care, health assessment, global health, leadership and management, and chronic care management, all featured in the spotlighted school below.
Example: University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
- Cost: $2,250
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
RN to MSN degree programs are for RNs who hold an ADN, offering a faster option for higher education in that these types of programs skip the need to pursue a BSN separately. These programs allow students to become nurse practitioners or other advanced nursing roles.
Example: Carroll University
- Cost: Tuition is $39,780
- Length: 1.5 to 2 years
- Mode: Hybrid
BSN to DNP
BSN to DNP programs are an ideal option for those wanting to fast track their BSN to graduate-level nursing. The goal of the curriculum for these programs will generally be to train nurse leaders in finding informational challenges, improving workflows, and advocating for ethical healthcare policies.
Example: University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
- Cost: Tuition is $42,254
- Length: Three to five years
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
If you have earned a master’s degree in another field, you can earn another in nursing science with a direct-entry program. Subjects studied may include health assessment, ethics and health care advocacy, maternity nursing theory, health promotion across the lifespan, and informatics, such as at the school listed here.
Example: Marquette University
- Cost: $67,000
- Length: 2.5 to 4 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Licensing Information & Requirements for Wisconsin RNs
The NCLEX-RN exam serves as the gateway to earning a license to work as a registered nurse in Wisconsin and all other states. The specific process for Wisconsin is set forth by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. We’ve outlined the steps for RN licensure in Wisconsin below.
1 – Earn Your Nursing Degree from an Accredited School
Students who want to become RNs in Wisconsin must graduate from a program approved by the Wisconsin board, who recognize accredited nursing school programs lauded for quality and career development. This governing body recognizes programs that are nationally accredited by two organizations, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on College Nursing Education.
2 – Pass Your NCLEX-RN Exam
Before you can receive your RN license from the Wisconsin Board of Nursing, you must take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination-RN, or NCLEX-RN. Use study guides and resources such as our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX to prepare for the exam. Most nursing students register for the test during the final few months of their nursing degree program. To register, create an account with Pearson VUE and pay a testing fee of $200. Wisconsin undergraduate nursing programs commonly have curriculum that covers aspects of the NCLEX.
3 – Apply for Licensure in Wisconsin
To become licensed as an RN in Wisconsin, you need to submit an application to the state’s nursing board. This includes providing proof that you’ve passed the accredited nursing program and earned a degree, undergoing a background check, showing your employment history, submitting fingerprints, and paying a $75 fee. You can also pay $10 for a temporary license if you are still completing some of the steps above and have a work opportunity. Note that RN licensing requirements differ for each state.
4 – Maintain Your License
To renew your Wisconsin RN license, complete the form on the nursing board’s website and pay a $57 standard renewal fee. There is also a workplace survey as part of the form. Licenses expire on March 1 every even-numbered year, and you have to pay an additional fee if you are late in renewing. Wisconsin is also a state where you don’t have to complete continuing education to renew your license.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
If you want to earn even better professional opportunities or affect genuine change in the way care is delivered, earning a certificate in several nursing disciplines can keep you active in the industry. Among the nursing disciplines that have certifications are pediatric, oncology, critical care, emergency, and mental health. You can also be certified as a nurse anesthetist or a nurse practitioner for an expansion of your specialty or distinctive role in healthcare.
Wisconsin Nursing Pay and Opportunities
In Wisconsin, Registered Nurses (RNs) can expect a solid employment outlook, with a projected 5.3% growth rate, adding about 3,310 new jobs by 2030. This rate is slightly lower than the national average but still indicates a steady demand for RNs in the state. In terms of earnings, the median annual salary for RNs in Wisconsin is $83,300, with those in the 10th percentile earning around $69,240 and those in the 90th percentile making up to $105,110. Cities like Madison offer the highest earnings, with the median salary reaching $86,500, while other regions like Green Bay and Milwaukee offer competitive wages as well. The state provides opportunities across various urban and rural areas, with annual openings averaging 3,770 positions. These figures suggest that Wisconsin is a stable and rewarding state for RNs, with decent wages and consistent job growth.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $69,240 | $83,300 | $105,110 |
| Appleton, WI | $66,050 | $80,500 | $101,280 |
| Eau Claire, WI | $67,400 | $80,090 | $99,290 |
| Fond du Lac, WI | $68,090 | $78,030 | $95,750 |
| Green Bay, WI | $67,460 | $80,290 | $99,420 |
| Janesville-Beloit, WI | $67,460 | $81,340 | $102,360 |
| Madison, WI | $77,630 | $86,500 | $105,840 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI | $69,200 | $82,780 | $106,900 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah, WI | $64,960 | $79,700 | $102,090 |
| Racine, WI | $66,280 | $79,320 | $98,780 |
| Sheboygan, WI | $65,300 | $79,310 | $98,620 |
| Wausau, WI | $68,050 | $78,380 | $95,610 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Wisconsin | 62,260 | 65,570 | 3,310 | 5.30% | 3,770 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Wisconsin’s Best Online Nursing Programs
In order to help out prospective students in their search, we’ve ranked two-year and four-year nursing programs in the following list. These are all schools that are accredited from a recognized organization, have at least one online component in nursing, and have academic and career support available for students. Colleges and universities reported their own data for this list, which includes metrics for online programs, tuition costs, and student-to-faculty ratio. Keep reading to find out which schools are among the highest ranked.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
Why We Selected University of Wisconsin-Madison:
- The program offers a single tuition rate of $452 per credit with no additional fees.
- The BSN@Home program provides flexible completion options, allowing students to finish in as little as 12 months.
- The program is taught by highly qualified faculty with master's or doctoral degrees, enhancing student success.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,273
- Average Institutional Aid$12,734
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course31%
- % of Students Receiving an Award88%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Why We Selected University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point:
- The 1+2+1 nursing pathway offers a cost-effective and time-saving route to a BSN degree.
- Dual enrollment allows students to complete both ADN and BSN requirements simultaneously.
- Partnerships with local technical colleges enhance clinical placement opportunities.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$6,698
- Average Institutional Aid$1,103
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course58%
- % of Students Receiving an Award60%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Why We Selected University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee:
- The UWM School of Nursing offers over $500,000 in annual nursing scholarships and funding.
- Clinical placements are available at over 160 partner agencies, enhancing practical experience.
- The program provides a diverse and supportive learning environment with expert faculty guidance.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,091
- Average Institutional Aid$1,107
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course67%
- % of Students Receiving an Award43%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Why We Selected University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire:
- The program offers a 99% placement rate for graduates, ensuring high job security.
- Hands-on clinical experiences are provided through partnerships with leading healthcare organizations like Mayo Clinic.
- Students can gain diverse clinical experience across various specialties, including pediatrics and mental health.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,361
- Average Institutional Aid$1,411
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course49%
- % of Students Receiving an Award67%
- Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
Viterbo University
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Why We Selected Viterbo University:
- Viterbo University's BSN program offers a state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Learning Center for real-world training.
- The program provides an immersive experience tailored to students' preferences and interests in healthcare settings.
- Viterbo ensures a four-year graduation guarantee through various admission pathways, including direct admission options.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$29,230
- Average Institutional Aid$17,953
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course50%
- % of Students Receiving an Award53%
- Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Why We Selected University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh:
- The program offers flexible online courses with 7 and 14-week options to fit busy schedules.
- The BSN@Home program allows students to transfer up to 90 credits, significantly reducing completion time.
- Faculty advisors provide personalized plans aligned with students' professional goals, enhancing career focus.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$6,422
- Average Institutional Aid$1,956
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course34%
- % of Students Receiving an Award61%
- Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
Lakeland University
Plymouth, Wisconsin
Why We Selected Lakeland University:
- Lakeland's RN to BSN program offers accelerated completion options for licensed nurses.
- The program provides opportunities for dual enrollment with partner institutions, enhancing career advancement.
- Lakeland's strong affiliations with universities like Ursuline College facilitate seamless degree progression.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$29,950
- Average Institutional Aid$18,539
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course41%
- % of Students Receiving an Award47%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Edgewood College
Madison, Wisconsin
Why We Selected Edgewood College:
- Edgewood College's nursing program offers a 99.1% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate.
- The program includes experiential learning through state-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Graduates are guaranteed admission into Edgewood's Master of Nursing programs with a 3.0 GPA.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$32,600
- Average Institutional Aid$16,122
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course13%
- % of Students Receiving an Award64%
- Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
Marian University
Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin
Why We Selected Marian University:
- Hands-on learning in advanced simulation labs enhances clinical skills.
- Direct entry into the BSN program ensures early start in nursing courses.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates demonstrate strong faculty support and preparation.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$28,660
- Average Institutional Aid$14,811
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course18%
- % of Students Receiving an Award54%
- Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
