How many colleges are in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin is home to 13 public universities within the University of Wisconsin system. The state government also funds 16 public community and technical colleges. Members of a federally recognized tribe may explore educational opportunities at two tribal colleges. Prospective students can also explore 22 private colleges and universities. They include Beloit College, Edgewood University, and Marquette University.

How do I get in-state tuition in Wisconsin?

College students qualify for in-state tuition by establishing residency in Wisconsin for 12 months. You can establish residency by registering a car in the state, renting or purchasing a property, and/or filing taxes within the state. Work with your school's financial aid office to meet state requirements as soon as possible.

What states have tuition reciprocity with Wisconsin?

A member of the Midwest Student Exchange Program, Wisconsin has tuition reciprocity with 12 states. However, this agreement applies only to 70 colleges and universities. As other requirements may apply, contact schools' financial aid offices to learn more about tuition reciprocity and how you can benefit.

What are the most common jobs in Wisconsin?

Home healthcare or personal aide is the most common job in Wisconsin as of May 2024, according to the BLS. Out of the 10 most common jobs, only one, registered nurse, requires a college education. Online schools in Wisconsin can help you prepare for this career and qualify for a state-issued license.

Discover The Best Online Colleges In Wisconsin

Wisconsin experienced one of its strongest years for economic growth in 2024, according to a May 2025 Milwaukee Business News report. The retail trade, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors contributed the most new jobs to the state economy. Many jobs in these and other growing fields require a college degree.

Online schools in Wisconsin offer in- and out-of-state prospective students an excellent and relatively affordable education. Explore the best online colleges in the state and jumpstart your career.

Wisconsin at a Glance

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are 49 nonprofit four-year schools in Wisconsin.
Per the U.S. Census Bureau, about 35% of adults in the state hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
In fall 2023, nearly 43% of students at Wisconsin institutions were enrolled in online courses, according to NCES.
Per NCES, in fall 2023, there were nearly 80,000 students aged 25 and older enrolled at Wisconsin colleges.

10 Best Online Schools in Wisconsin

Who Accredits Online Schools in Wisconsin?

Attending an accredited school means you can expect quality academics and faculty. In Wisconsin, the Higher Learning Commission — a private agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education — is the primary accrediting agency for colleges and universities.

The process of institutional accreditation evaluates a school's curricular offerings, faculty, resources, and graduation outcomes. Attending an accredited institution enables you to receive federal financial aid and qualify for credit transfers between schools.

How Much Does College Cost in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin residents can save significantly on their education by attending a public undergraduate or graduate school. The figures above also suggest that public online colleges in Wisconsin are a great choice for out-of-state undergraduates who want to avoid the higher-than-average cost of a private school education.

Wisconsin residents who want to further reduce their cost of attendance can explore financial aid through the state's Higher Education Aids Board:

Talent Incentive Program Grant: This grant program awards $600-$1,800 to students from low-income backgrounds. The grant renews annually based on learners' academic performance and Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) results.
Minority Undergraduate Retention Grant: Students from minority backgrounds enrolled at least half time may qualify for $250-$2,500 annually. Submit the FAFSA to apply.
Academic Excellence Scholarship: Wisconsin awards up to $2,250 per year to full-time degree-seekers who graduated near or at the top of their high school class. Recipients can use the scholarship at any college or university in Wisconsin.

Career Opportunities in Wisconsin

$48,930
Median annual wage in WI (May 2024)

+7.1%
Projected job growth in WI (2022-2032)

3.1%
Unemployment rate in WI (August 2025)

Source: Burea of Labor Statistics (BLS), Projections Central, BLS LAUS

Although the median annual salary in Wisconsin aligns with the national median, the high projected job growth and low unemployment rate make the state attractive to recent college graduates. You can increase your chances of getting a well-paying, in-demand job by preparing for a career in one of Wisconsin's fastest-growing fields or industries:

Biohealth
Renewable energy
Advanced manufacturing
Water technology

Researching the state's biggest employers can also help you choose a major. In and around Madison, the state capital, the healthcare, education, and insurance industries employ tens of thousands of people.

Popular Cities for Recent Grads

Milwaukee

Some of Milwaukee's biggest employers include Advocate Aurora Health and BMO Harris Bank.
In recent years, the city has invested in eco-friendly infrastructure projects.
Companies with headquarters in Milwaukee include Harley-Davidson and Kohler.

Oshkosh

Residents enjoy a cost of living 7% lower than the state average, per the Economic Research Institute.
The city's largest employers include the Oshkosh Corporation, healthcare providers, and local government.
Oshkosh offers small business grants, special financing, and tax credits.

Madison

Major employers include education, software, and insurance organizations.
Business owners can apply for city grants to train employees in the latest skills and best practices.
The city features a low 2.7% unemployment rate, according to the BLS.