The Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin for 2018
Online schools in Wisconsin present many advantages. Not only does the state have the third best quality of life in the country, it also has a strong economy that ranks highly in economic opportunity, production, and employment. With high graduation rates, Wisconsin's higher education system is considered the 18th best in the country. Tuition rates in the state are about the same as the national average.
The strength of Wisconsin's distance learning is primarily due to the state's UW flexible option program, which is offered through the University of Wisconsin system. This distance education program focuses on helping nontraditional students earn degrees and certificates while maintaining personal and professional responsibilities. Through this program, students can receive credit for work experience. Learners can also participate in competency-based education, which measures student progress toward degrees through the skills and knowledge they've mastered rather than through the number of credits they earn.
In addition, UW "flexible option" connects students with online academic success coaches. The program works with UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, and UW-Parkside. The state has many other colleges that offer distance learning programs. Online programs offer students more flexible and affordable educations. Online colleges in Wisconsin sometimes offer a lower tuition.
Four reasons to find an online college in your state:
- Guaranteed in-state tuition saves you money
- Be a part of a university or college you know and love
- Get a degree from a school employers know and trust
- Be close enough to easily visit when desired
Ranking guidelines for the best online colleges in Wisconsin:
Download this badge
Note: In ranking the best online colleges in Wisconsin, giving attention to the variety of degree programs available at the institutions is of utmost importance. For this reason, a more prestigious school in Wisconsin may offer one, or a few online degrees, but that may not be enough for that school to rank highly among the best online colleges in the state. In this ranking, we are dedicated to showing who's leading the way in delivering quality online degree programs in Wisconsin.
The Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin
1. University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, established in 1849, is the single largest university in the Milwaukee metropolitan area. The university currently enrolls more than 25,000 students, offers more than 185 programs of study and contains 14 academic colleges and schools. Some of the majors the university offers include freshwater sciences, urban planning, nursing, engineering and applied science.
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee offers baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral and certificate programs through its UWM Online platform. Bachelor’s degrees include biomedical science, information science and political science. Master’s degree options include library science, translation and administrative leadership. Doctoral degree offerings include nursing. Available certifications include crime analysis, therapeutic recreation and digital libraries.
Online student resources include an online library with librarians available via live chat, email or over the phone.
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee's top rankings on TBS
2. University of Wisconsin - Superior
Superior, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Superior, established in 1893, has more than 2,500 students in attendance. The university provides a variety of undergraduate majors and several graduate programs in the sciences, arts and professions.
The University of Wisconsin Superior offers associate, baccalaureate, master and certificate programs online through its Distance Learning Center. Online bachelor’s degrees include communicating arts, exercise science and health and wellness management. Online master’s degree offerings include sustainable management and data science. Available online certifications include sustainable management science and sustainable management enterprise.
Online student resources include an online job board, online tutoring, a writing center, online exam proctoring, technical support, counseling, disability services, veterans’ services, and an online library.
The University of Wisconsin Superior is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin Superior's top rankings on TBS
- The 25 Best Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs
- The 40 Best Online Bachelor's in Education Programs
3. University of Wisconsin - Stout
Menomonie, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Stout, established in 1891, is named in honor of its founder, James Stout. The university is known as a polytechnic university and specializes in more than 75 academic programs within industry, home economics, technology, the helping professions and applied art. The university also features an English as a Second Language Institute in case any of its 10,000+ students do not speak English natively.
The University of Wisconsin Stout offers a wide range of baccalaureate, master’s and certificate programs both online and in a blended format. Bachelor’s degree options include digital marketing, management and sustainable management. Master’s degree offerings include construction management, education and conservation biology. Available certifications include legal studies, sustainable enterprise management and institutional research.
Online student resources include disability services, career services, an online job board, online tutoring, technical support and an online library with librarians available via live chat, email, text message or over the phone.
The University of Wisconsin Stout is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin Stout's top rankings on TBS
- 25 Online Colleges with the Best Return on Investment
- The 20 Best Online Bachelor's in Project Management Programs
- The 9 Best Online Bachelor's in Special Education Programs
- The 15 Best Online Bachelor's in Human & Family Development Programs
- The 20 Best Online Bachelor's in Child Development Programs
4. Concordia University - Wisconsin
Mequon, Wisconsin
Concordia University Wisconsin, established in 1881, is a private, Christian liberal arts university operated by the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. The university offers more than 95 programs of study. Some of their most popular majors include health professions, education and business.
Concordia University Wisconsin offers online associate, baccalaureate, master, doctoral and certificate programs. Online associate’s degrees include business, criminal justice and health services. Online bachelor’s degrees include nursing, business and health services. Online master’s degree options include nursing, education and counseling. Online doctoral degree offerings include health services, business and occupational therapy. Available online certifications include health services, information technology and counseling.
Online student resources include academic advising and an online library with librarians available via online form or over the phone.
Concordia University Wisconsin is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Concordia University Wisconsin's top rankings on TBS
- The 10 Best Online Associate in Healthcare Management Programs
- The 10 Best Online Associate's in Healthcare Administration Degree Programs
- Best Online Master's in Management Information Systems Programs
- The 23 Best Online Master's in Family Counseling Programs
5. Cardinal Stritch University
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Cardinal Stritch offers six fully online programs, including four bachelor's and two master's degrees. All students pay a per-credit tuition rate whether they are in or out of state. The university's main campus is north of Milwaukee, and there are satellite locations in Madison and Brookfield.
One CSU offering that is unique among online colleges in Wisconsin is a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy. Designed for current respiratory therapists who want to expand their career options, the program allows students to start their coursework in the fall or spring. Applicants must have a current respiratory care license to enroll in the program.
The university gives prospective students the option to try out a sample online course to determine if distance learning is right for them. Once enrolled, students have access to resources like a digital library, academic support, and financial aid assistance.
Cardinal Stritch is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Cardinal Stritch University's top rankings on TBS
6. University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Online offers a diverse selection of distance learning programs and courses, including master's degrees in communication sciences, business administration, and data science. Other options include online certifications in foundations of business as well as special education and pupil services.
Like many online schools in Wisconsin, UWEC Online uses Canvas as its digital portal to access course materials, lectures, discussions, and assignments. Enrolled students also benefit from financial aid assistance, academic support, and services for military veterans and their families. Discounted tuition is provided for both Wisconsin and Minnesota residents.
To apply as a graduate student, an individual must submit their undergraduate transcripts, a personal essay, three letters of recommendation, and a current resume. Some programs require GRE or GMAT scores.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Online is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire's top rankings on TBS
7. Ottawa University - Milwaukee
Brookfield, Wisconsin
Ottawa University's Brookfield campus offers dozens of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, many of which can be completed partially or completely online. Options cover numerous subject areas such as business, education, and arts and sciences, giving Ottawa one of the top selections of distance learning courses for online schools in Wisconsin.
Prospective undergraduate students fill out an online application and submit their high school and/or college transcripts. Graduate students must have maintained a minimum 3.0 GPA throughout their undergraduate studies and are required to provide their transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a current resume, and a personal statement.
All online students have access to services such as academic advising, registration assistance, financial advising, and tutoring. The school's Brookfield campus is located about 12 miles west of Milwaukee, the state's largest city.
Ottawa University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
8. Viterbo University
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Established in 1890, Viterbo University is a private, Roman Catholic university which offers more than 75 programs of study. The university, founded as an elementary teacher training school for religious sisters, is known for its nursing and theatre programs. The university is one of only a few members of the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities in the United States.
Viterbo University offers online associate and baccalaureate degrees. Associate’s degree options include arts and science, while bachelor’s degree offerings include nursing, criminal justice administration, healthcare management, professional studies and organizational management.
Resources made available to online students include online writing assistance, 24/7 online tutoring, academic advising, career services, technical support and an online library with librarians available via live chat, email, text message or over the phone.
Viterbo University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Viterbo University's top rankings on TBS
9. Maranatha Baptist University
Watertown, Wisconsin
Founded in 1968, Maranatha Baptist currently serves about 750 students online and at its Watertown campus. Offering flexible and engaging courses, MBU is one of the most convenient online colleges in Wisconsin. Options include bachelor's degrees in biblical studies, business, educational studies, and interdisciplinary studies. Students may also enroll in one of six online associate degree programs or select from three graduate programs. In addition to its online programs, MBU offers courses for guest students who aim to advance their knowledge in a variety of subjects.
Enrollment is simple for prospective students. The application process is free, and most transfer credits from accredited colleges and universities are accepted. MBU charges a flat per-credit tuition rate, even for those who live outside of Wisconsin. Students over the age of 55 receive a 50% discount on their tuition.
MBU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Maranatha Baptist University's top rankings on TBS
10. Marian University
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Marian University, originally Marian College, was founded in 1936 by the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes. Nestled in the Fox Valley community of Fond du Lac, it offers nine online bachelor's and eight online master's degree programs. Hybrid courses are also available for those who want to take some classes on campus.
Marian's selection of distance learning programs are unique among the various online schools in Wisconsin. One example is its MS in thanatology, which focuses on assisting individuals and families as they deal with death, dying, and loss. Students learn about the social, psychological, and physical issues related to end-of-life care and support.
The university also gives distance learners the support they need as they complete their studies, providing academic advising, a counseling center, services for veterans, and tutoring assistance.
Marian is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Marian University's top rankings on TBS
11. University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
La Crosse, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin La Crosse, founded in 1909, was one of the state’s first teacher training schools. It has more than 10,000 students in attendance and offers over 100 programs of study. Some of the majors the university offers include biology, exercise and sports science, finance, elementary education, psychology, social science, the arts, communications and health sciences.
The University of Wisconsin La Crosse offers baccalaureate, master’s and certificate programs online through its Online Education department. Online bachelor’s degree options include health information management as well as health and wellness management. Online master’s degrees include education, professional development and data science. Available online certifications include educational leadership, professional learning and language arts.
Resources made available to online students include an online library with librarians available via email, fax or over the phone.
The University of Wisconsin La Crosse is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin La Crosse's top rankings on TBS
12. University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, established in 1871, is among the largest universities in the state. It was one of Wisconsin’s first teacher training schools and the first teacher training school in the country to include a kindergarten. A number of the university’s buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places, including Harrington Hall, Oviatt House and the William E. Pollock Residence, home of the founder of the Oshkosh B’Gosh children’s clothing line.
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers bachelor’s and certificate programs online through its Lifelong Learning department. Online bachelor’s degrees include organizational administration, fire emergency and response management, human services leadership and criminal justice. Available online certifications include organizational administration, leadership development and fire and emergency response.
Online student resources include an online job board and an online library with librarians available via live chat, email or over the phone.
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh's top rankings on TBS
- The 25 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Services Degree Programs
- The 50 Best Online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts Programs
13. University of Wisconsin - Whitewater
Whitewater, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Whitewater, established in 1868, has more than 12,000 students in attendance from 40 states and 40 countries around the world. The university gained the ability to award baccalaureate degrees in 1927 and it has since expanded its offerings to include education, business, political science and much more.
The University of Wisconsin Whitewater offers online baccalaureate, master and certificate programs. Online bachelor’s degree programs include business, liberal studies and political science. Online master’s degrees include special education, business administration and library media. Available online certifications include applied behavior analysis and alternative education.
Resources available to online students include career services, an online job board, disability services, health services and an online library with librarians available via 24/7 live chat, email or over the phone.
The University of Wisconsin Whitewater is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin Whitewater's top rankings on TBS
- The 25 Best Online MBA in International Business Degree Programs
- The Best Online Master's in Supply Chain Management Programs
- The 50 Best Online Bachelor's in Liberal Arts Programs
14. University of Wisconsin - Platteville
Platteville, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Platteville, established in 1866, serves more than 8,500 students. The university is the product of a merger between Wisconsin State College Platteville and the Wisconsin Institute of Technology. The resulting university became Wisconsin’s first teacher training school and has expanded over the years to include business, agriculture, engineering, mathematics and more.
The University of Wisconsin Platteville offers online baccalaureate, master and certificate programs. Bachelor’s degree options include business administration and criminal justice. Master’s degrees include distance education leadership and integrated supply chain management. Available online certifications include child advocacy studies and engineering. Students can apply any courses taken toward the completion of a certificate program, which may be applied toward a degree in the future.
Online student resources include technical support and an online library with librarians available via live chat, email or over the phone.
The University of Wisconsin Platteville is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin Platteville's top rankings on TBS
- The Best Online Colleges for Military Personnel & Families
- Best Online Master's and MBA in Project Management Degree Programs
- The 25 Best Online Master of Criminal Justice Degree Programs
- The 25 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
15. University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Green Bay, Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Green Bay, established in 1965, originally focused on environmental sustainability, earning it the nickname “Eco U” early on in its life cycle and has since branched out to include many other programs of study. The campus features a vast network of underground tunnels to help students get where they need to go on campus more quickly and protect them from the winter snow.
The University of Wisconsin Green Bay offers online associate, baccalaureate and certificate programs. Online associate’s degree options include arts and sciences. Online bachelor’s degrees include business administration and applied studies. Available online certifications include emergency management and nonprofit management.
Online student resources include technical support, a job board and an online library.
The University of Wisconsin Green Bay is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
16. University of Wisconsin - Parkside
Kenosha, Wisconsin
Located in southeastern Wisconsin, UW-Parkside offers exceptional online programs for those looking to finish their bachelor's degree in business management, health information management, sociology, or sustainable management. Its focus is on helping those who have an associate degree or incomplete four-year degree to move across the finish line, and several online master's degrees and certificate programs are offered.
With the UW Flexible Option, students can earn credit based on their competency rather than the time spent on coursework. Through this option, adult learners complete requirements at their own pace and apply their existing knowledge toward their degree. Students regularly demonstrate what they know—even if they didn't gain that knowledge through UW-Parkside courses.
A full suite of student services are available, including academic advising, tutoring, disability services, and counseling.
UW-Parkside is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of The University of Wisconsin - Parkside's top rankings on TBS
17. University of Wisconsin - River Falls
River Falls, Wisconsin
Specially designed to help adult learners complete their bachelor's degrees, UW-River Falls' completely online programs include applied computing, health and wellness management, and sustainable management. Students may also engage in several hybrid programs that combine online and on-campus coursework.
UW-River Falls is among the best online schools in Wisconsin due to its flexible scheduling and its consideration of each student's work experience in awarding credits. Many distance learners continue to work full time while taking classes—and may earn credit while doing so.
The university maintains an Academic Forgiveness Policy, which allows former students who have not taken classes for at least five years to come back and improve their GPAs. If successful, their improved grades can replace their previous GPAs on their official transcripts.
Located in western Wisconsin, UW-River Falls is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
