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Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin

Colleges with online classes offer a flexible option to earn your degree while also balancing many of life's other responsibilities. Check out the most popular online programs of 2023 below.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 University of Wisconsin-Madison
location Madison, WI
tuition $14169
acceptance_rate 87%
UW-Madison is Wisconsin's largest postsecondary institution, enrolling more than 45,000 students on its 938-acre campus and online. The university ranks among the best online colleges in Wisconsin, with diverse online offerings. These include more than 60 fully online programs and degrees in fields like education, science, and engineering. Students can choose from a variety of online bachelor's, master's, and professional degrees. Many programs deliver all coursework asynchronously. Comprehensive technology, career, and academic support services are available for online students. Distance learners can apply to online programs in the fall, spring, and summer. The university offers a set, per-credit tuition rate for online coursework, regardless of residency. UW-Madison Online also offers enrollment coaches and academic advisors to assist students.
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#2 University of Wisconsin-River Falls
location River Falls, WI
tuition $15326
acceptance_rate 57%
One of 13 schools in the University of Wisconsin System, UWRF operates on a 303-acre campus near Minneapolis-St. Paul and enrolls nearly 6,000 students. UWRF offers more than 70 programs across four academic colleges, including online degrees and certificates. UWRF offers five bachelor's degree completion programs and three certificates through online and hybrid learning. Online majors include applied computing, health and wellness management, and sustainable management. Teachers and professionals can also pursue various continuing education opportunities online at UWRF. Fully online students can choose from full-time and part-time enrollment options. UWRF's bachelor's degree completion programs target students who already hold an associate degree.
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#3 University of Wisconsin-Parkside
location Kenosha, WI
tuition $10409
acceptance_rate 38%
Established in 1968, UW-Parkside emphasizes customizable degrees, small classes, and personalized attention from instructors. UW-Parkside enrolls nearly 4,500 students in dozens of degree, certificate, and pre-professional and special training programs. Through UW-Parkside's online programs, students can choose from majors in fields like business, arts and sciences, healthcare, and information technology. The university also offers two competency-based, self-paced online programs through the UW Flexible Option. Distance learners can access tutoring, academic advising, and disability services. Instructors may choose to administer courses synchronously or asynchronously through the Canvas learning management system. More than half of all UW-Parkside students take at least one course online.
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#4 University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
location Green Bay, WI
tuition $12323
acceptance_rate 52%
UW-Green Bay encompasses four physical campuses and an online division, offering a variety of graduate and undergraduate programs entirely or partially online. High school students also can pursue individual online courses for college credit. UW-Green Bay ranks among the fastest-growing and best online colleges in Wisconsin. The university offers online associate and bachelor's degrees in fields like business, organizational leadership, nursing, and public administration. Students also can pursue a variety of graduate programs, including an online MS in cybersecurity and an executive impact MBA with a hybrid delivery option. UW-Green Bay delivers most online coursework asynchronously, although hybrid programs may include some synchronous sessions. Online students pay a special, per-credit tuition rate based on their course load (regardless of their state of residence). Rates may differ for programs delivered through UW-Green Bay's Marinette, Manitowoc, and Sheboygan campuses.
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#5 University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
location La Crosse, WI
tuition $12419
acceptance_rate 71%
On the western border of Wisconsin, UW-La Crosse enrolls nearly 10,500 students. The university boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio of 19-to-1. It also has an 86% retention rate of first-year students who return the next year. Students can choose from more than 130 academic programs. UW-La Crosse offers seven online bachelor's completion and master's degree programs. Students can complete an online BS in health information management and technology or health and wellness management. Master's programs explore cybersecurity, data science, healthcare administration, information technology management, and recreation management. Distance learners also can pursue professional development and continuing education coursework online in subjects like policing and health education and behavioral health. UW-La Crosse offers competitive tuition rates, Army credentialing assistance programs, and a scholarship for military spouses.
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#6 University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
location Whitewater, WI
tuition $12094
acceptance_rate 58%
UW-Whitewater ranks among the best online colleges in Wisconsin due in part to its diversity and value. Before the application process, prospective students can test drive Canvas — the university's digital learning management system. Once enrolled, students can choose from more than 10 online bachelor's degrees in majors like education, communication, marketing, and political science. More general programs explore applied arts and sciences and liberal studies. UW-Whitewater also offers online master's degrees in subjects like business, education, environmental safety, and technology. UW-Whitewater's distance learners pay set tuition rates for most online programs, no matter where they live. Faculty deliver most online courses asynchronously, with no campus visits or in-person requirements.
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#7 University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
location Stevens Point, WI
tuition $13599
acceptance_rate 62%
UWSP operates three campuses in central Wisconsin. The university also houses a nature reserve and three off-site field stations for environmental studies, forestry, and aquaculture programs. UWSP's academic offerings include more than 20 online graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs. UWSP offers a comprehensive online self-assessment tool for prospective distance learners. Once enrolled, distance learners can choose from online bachelor's and master's degrees in diverse specializations, including education, healthcare, technology, and environmental studies. UWSP also offers an associate of arts and sciences online. Other program options include an online RN-to-BSN completion program and an Ed.D. in educational sustainability. Distance learners can access an IT service desk, a tutoring learning center, and Canvas assistance. UWSP accepts applications on a rolling basis.
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#8 University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
location Oshkosh, WI
tuition $12819
acceptance_rate 53%
UW-Oshkosh operates three campuses in Wisconsin —Fond Du Lac, Oshkosh, and Fox Cities — along with an online division. The university enrolls nearly 9,800 students, 44% of whom are the first in their family to attend college. UW-Oshkosh offers more than 250 programs across four colleges, including online graduate and undergraduate degrees. UW-Oshkosh emphasizes flexibility among its online programs. Students can choose to complete courses 100% online or by mixing in some hybrid, evening, and/or weekend courses on campus. UW-Oshkosh offers more than 20 bachelor's, master's, and collaborative programs online in majors like education, nursing, and cybersecurity. Online students enjoy the same learning assistance services as on-campus learners. Resources include online tutoring, disability accommodations and counseling support, and a student technology center. UW-Oshkosh charges set, per-credit tuition rates for online graduate and undergraduate coursework, no matter where students live.
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#9 Concordia University-Wisconsin
location Mequon, WI
tuition
acceptance_rate 59%
CUW students can earn their degree online or in person by attending campuses on either side of Lake Michigan — in Ann Arbor, Michigan, or Mequon, Wisconsin. Additionally, this Christian university offers hybrid programs through regional learning centers across the state. Distance learners can choose from dozens of graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs. Many degrees offer a choice of fully online or hybrid coursework. Major areas of study include business, education, nursing, health professions, and arts and sciences. CUW also delivers a variety of accelerated degrees and continuing education programs online. CUW assigns a personal academic advisor to online students upon enrollment. Instructors may administer coursework in a self-paced or cohort format, depending on the program. CUW offers a set, per-credit rate for online coursework and a variety of scholarships tailored to distance learners.
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#10 University of Wisconsin-Platteville
location Platteville, WI
tuition $14158
acceptance_rate 54%
An early pioneer of distance education, UW-Platteville launched its distance learning program in 1978. The university also offered Wisconsin's first fully online degree in 1999. UW-Platteville now operates three physical campuses and an online division, enrolling more than 2,500 students annually. Students can choose from more than 30 online graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs. UW-Platteville offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in majors like business, engineering, healthcare, technology, and arts and sciences. Students also can pursue individual courses online. UW-Platteville charges set, per-credit tuition rates for online coursework, no matter where students live. Online students may enroll at the beginning of the fall, spring, or summer semesters. UW-Platteville delivers online courses through Canvas and offers support resources like tutoring, academic advising, and career and professional development services.
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online colleges in Wisconsin?

Some of the best online colleges in Wisconsin include the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

2. How do I choose the right online college in Wisconsin?

When choosing an online college in Wisconsin, consider factors such as accreditation, program offerings, faculty qualifications, student support services, and tuition costs.

3. Are online degrees from Wisconsin colleges respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable Wisconsin colleges are generally respected by employers. It is important to choose an accredited institution to ensure the quality and recognition of your degree.

4. Can I transfer credits earned from another college to an online college in Wisconsin?

Many online colleges in Wisconsin accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the specific transfer policies may vary, so it is best to contact the admissions office of the college you are interested in for more information.

5. How long does it take to complete an online degree in Wisconsin?

The duration of an online degree program in Wisconsin depends on various factors, including the level of the degree (associate, bachelor's, master's), the program's requirements, and the student's pace. On average, bachelor's degrees can take around 4 years to complete.

6. Are there any financial aid options available for online college students in Wisconsin?

Yes, online college students in Wisconsin are eligible for various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. It is recommended to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal and state aid programs.

7. Can I access student support services as an online college student in Wisconsin?

Yes, most online colleges in Wisconsin provide student support services to online students. These services may include academic advising, career counseling, library access, online tutoring, and technical support.

8. Are online classes in Wisconsin conducted in real-time or can I complete them at my own pace?

Online classes in Wisconsin can be conducted in different formats. Some may be synchronous, requiring students to attend virtual classes at specific times, while others may be asynchronous, allowing students to access course materials and complete assignments at their own pace.

9. What technology requirements do I need for online classes in Wisconsin?

The technology requirements for online classes in Wisconsin may vary depending on the college and program. Generally, you will need a reliable internet connection, a computer or laptop, and access to necessary software or learning platforms.

10. Can I pursue a graduate degree online in Wisconsin?

Yes, many colleges in Wisconsin offer online graduate degree programs. These programs provide flexibility for working professionals or individuals who prefer the convenience of online learning while pursuing advanced degrees.