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 that employers know and trust
Be close enough to easily visit when desired
Ranking Guidelines for the Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin
We selected the online colleges and universities here based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
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 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 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 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.
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.
Cardinal Stritch is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
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.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Online is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
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.
Ottawa University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
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.
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.
MBU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
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.
Marian is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
UW-Parkside is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
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.
Located in western Wisconsin, UW-River Falls is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
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.
Many students begin their education at a two–year college in Wisconsin and later transfer to a four–year college. Doing so can help keep costs relatively low since two–year colleges typically cost less than four–year schools. However, if students are thinking about pursuing an online degree, they should consider other variables, in addition to cost. The following ranking reviews online options that provide both rigor and value.
The Most Affordable Online Associate Programs in Wisconsin
CWC is a public two–year college in Riverton that maintains outreach centers in Dubois, Jackson, and Lander. The college is home to the state’s only public broadcasting station and is a leading provider of community enrichment classes. Students can choose among degrees, certificates, and classes in 36 subjects.
As one of the top online community colleges in Wyoming, CWC aims to make online learning flexible while maintaining academic rigor. Learners communicate with classmates and educators through email, phone calls, and the school’s online learning system. Online classes use asynchronous learning, which allows learners to log on at their convenience.
Wyoming residents pay the lowest tuition rates at CWC. However, nonresident students receive significant tuition discounts if they come from states that participate in the Western Undergraduate Exchange. CWC also maintains transfer agreements with several universities. These agreements make it easier for CWC graduates to apply their credits toward bachelor’s degrees. For example, graduates from the AA in criminal justice program can transfer seamlessly to the bachelor’s program at Regis University.
In 1948, EWC opened in Torrington to serve students in Goshen County. Today, the public two–year college supports nearly 2,000 students in programs for college credit and almost 6,000 learners in noncredit opportunities. EWC also hosts students on campuses in Converse, Crook, Niobrara, Platte, and Weston counties, as well as online.
Students may take asynchronous or synchronous online courses at EWC. Synchronous courses require students to log in to web conferences at set times during the week through the WizIQ system. Learners need headsets and microphones, although cameras remain optional. Degree candidates use LancerNet to access asynchronous parts of courses. Through this system, learners can take exams, participate in class discussions, keep journals, and upload class assignments.
As one of the most affordable online colleges in Wyoming, EWC offers several value–added services for distance education students. For example, learners can access the school’s 24/7 online tutoring service and the Student Success Center, which provides individualized tutoring services, study groups, review sessions, and study tools. As a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC–SARA), EWC provides distance education to students in any NC–SARA state.
With more than 3,700 students, Casper is one of the largest community colleges in the region. The public institution opened in 1945 as the first junior college in Wyoming, and it continues to expand learning access through its online offerings.
AAS, AB, and Certificate in Accounting and Bookkeeping
AA in Early Childhood Education
AS in Health Science with Three Concentrations
AAS and Certificate in Office Management
AS in Psychology
AAS and Certificate in Fire Science
The school also offers more than 50 hybrid programs that allow learners to complete at least 70 of their coursework online. While hybrid classes require degree candidates to attend some in–person lectures, fully online classes use asynchronous learning. Students access their coursework, syllabi, lectures, quizzes, grades, and discussion boards through the online learning management system Moodle4Me.
Applicants need a high school diploma or GED. While Casper does not consider entrance exam scores for admissions, new students must submit these results for math and English placement.
This full–service community college hosts campuses and outreach centers in Laramie, Cheyenne, Pine Bluffs, and at the Francis E. Warren Air Force Base. About 3,200 students enroll full time in college courses each year, and almost as many learners enroll in career enrichment programs.
The school also offers some hybrid programs — with at least 75 of the coursework online — in areas like early childhood education, systems administration, and small business management. Students must complete the in–person portions of these courses on campus in Albany county.
Distance learners take asynchronous classes, completing work around their schedules while meeting weekly deadlines. LCCC offers quick quizzes that help prospective students determine if online learning is right for them.
In–state residents pay low tuition rates at this cheap online college in Wyoming. Because the school participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange, online learners from member states pay a discounted rate.
Sheridan is part of the Northern Wyoming Community College District. The college supports the local economy through strong ties with the diesel, welding, healthcare, and dental industries in the area. The school also hosts an arts center and agricultural research center.
Many of the college’s online education offerings supplement on–campus programs. However, students can complete several programs entirely online. Sheridan offers several online associate degrees and certificates, including:
AS, AAS, and Certificate in Business
AS in Computer Information Systems
AAS and Certificate in Cybersecurity
AS, AAS, and Certificate in Early Childhood Education
AA in English
AA in History
Online learners access courses through MyNWCCD. Distance students also gain access to helpful online resources, including the Student HelpZone, which provides technical assistance. Online degree candidates take asynchronous classes; however, they must take tests under the supervision of proctors through the school’s testing center or at location near their home.
Sheridan provides online education to students in states that participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement s. Sheridan charges out–of–state students higher rates than Wyoming residents. However, because Sheridan participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), degree candidates from WUE states receive significant tuition discounts. Students who earn ACT scores of 25 or higher may qualify for tuition waivers.
NWC opened in 1946 with about 100 students and just three educators. Today, the school hosts a main campus in Powell and four off–campus learning centers. NWC educates more than 1,500 learners each year, about 80 of whom are Wyoming residents.
NWC offers two online associate degrees: an AA in sociology and an AA in social science. The school designates both of these programs as transfer degrees, which means that graduates can easily transfer to many four–year universities. NWC students can also take several classes in other programs online, including statewide courses through WyCLASS.
Degree candidates access all online courses through Moodle. The school offers online tutorials and support that help students learn to use this learning management system. Online courses use asynchronous delivery. Distance learners gain access to the school’s online tutoring provider, NetTutor. Students can log on to this resource any time to get personalized help with their schoolwork.
Applicants need high school diplomas, GEDs, or completed homeschool transcripts. Some students must also submit scores from the ACT, SAT, or COMPASS. The school uses these scores to place learners in English and mathematics courses. NWC remains one of the most affordable online colleges in Wyoming, offering in–state tuition rates under $100 per credit.
All online classes use asynchronous learning. While students do not need to log on at specific times, WWCC recommends that degree candidates log on to each class at least three times per week. If students cannot find classes they want to take through WWCC, then they can choose statewide courses through WyCLASS without transferring.
WWCC maintains relationships with nearby universities to help students apply credits toward bachelor’s and master’s degrees. WWCC graduates can easily transfer to schools such as the University of Wyoming, Mayville State University, and Upper Iowa University.
Many students begin their education at a two–year college in Wisconsin and later transfer to a four–year college. Doing so can help keep costs relatively low since two–year colleges typically cost less than four–year schools. However, if students are thinking about pursuing an online degree, they should consider other variables, in addition to cost. The following ranking reviews online options that provide both rigor and value.
The Most Affordable Online Associate Programs in Wisconsin
At Milwaukee Area Technical College, students choose from more than 170 programs that provide multiple pathways for educational and career success. MATC’s catalog of occupational and transfer associate degrees prepare learners to enter the workplace or continue and earn a four–year degree. MATC students need not attend classes on campus to earn degrees at one of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin. The college offers several online associate degrees for flexible learning.
The school’s 60–credit accelerated associate of arts online track covers the first two years of general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree, and students can complete this AA in just one year of full–time study. Alternatively, learners interested in entering the workforce immediately after graduation can choose from several fully online associate degrees in business.
Gateway Technical College offers approximately 70 programs on several campuses and online. About 18,000 students enroll in GTC’s programs, which include online degrees in fields such as accounting, business, and information technology.
The school’s 63–credit AAS in accounting prepares learners for careers as bookkeepers or accountants by training them to use Excel, QuickBooks, and professional income tax software. Alternatively, students can ready themselves for careers in sales, finance, human resources, and other business fields by earning GTC’s 62–creditAAS in business management. Students in this program study topics such as business law, computers for professionals, and marketing.
Learners interested in high–demand information technology careers can choose the 60–credit AAS in network specialist, which covers how to establish, secure, and maintain computer networks with software programs such as Cisco, Microsoft, and Hewlett Packard. Another option — the 61–credit AAS in IT–Web software developer — equips learners with the technical proficiencies needed to build and maintain a website using a variety of programming languages. Students also prepare for certifications offered by Microsoft, Oracle, and CompTIA. GTC also offers associate degrees in fields like graphic communication, supply chain management, and leadership development.
One of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin, tuition at GTC costs about half that of local four–year public colleges. GTC notes that 89% of its students gain employment within six months of graduation, and learners can choose from several start terms per year.
Western Technical College teaches students the technical skills needed to assume diverse careers throughout the region. Western’s partnerships with the business community help maintain a high student placement rate in various occupations. Learners may also begin a bachelor’s degree by completing an affordable associate degree at Western. Students can choose fromseveral fully online options.
For example, the school’s 60–credit AAS in digital marketing provides learners with the foundational knowledge, tools, and techniques necessary to market businesses, products, and services in today’s digital environment. Students learn about SEO, marketing analytics, digital advertising, and website content management through a virtual classroom.
Western — one of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin — also offers a 60–credit AAS in hospitality management that prepares learners for careers in the second–largest industry in Wisconsin. Students acquire expertise in areas such as sales and promotions, customer service, software applications for business, and event management.
The college’s 60–credit AAS in business analyst prepares students for careers in in–demand industries, such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. The curriculum develops proficiencies in data utilization for businesses, team building and problem–solving, solution analysis, and project management.
Western makes it easy for students to transfer credits to a four–year program through articulation agreements with schools such as Viterbo University and Franklin University.
Western Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Moraine Park Technical College administers about 100 programs on campuses in Beaver Dam, West Bend, and Fond du Lac. The school’s catalog includes approximately 50 associate of applied science degrees, many of which students may earn in blended or fully online formats.
Online offerings include the 66–credit AAS in accounting, which teaches learners how to perform accounting procedures like payroll preparation, cost accounting preparation, and tax accounting. Students also learn how to use industry software, such as Quickbooks and Microsoft Office. Learners interested in other business careers can earn MPTC’s 63–credit AAS in business analyst, 64–credit AAS in administrative professional, or 64–credit AAS in small business entrepreneurship.
MPTC — one of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin — also offers three associate degrees in information technology: a 64–credit AAS in IT – mobile applications developer, 65–credit AAS inIT – web development and design specialist, and 67–credit AAS in IT – software developer.
The school also offers a career and technical education program that trains water quality, environmental, and field service technicians. Students earning the 63–credit AAS in water quality technology receive instruction on how to test, analyze, and treat water supplies in municipalities. In addition to online coursework, this program requires an internship, which can be carried out near a student’s home.
MPTC offers competitive tuition, and out–of–state distance learners pay in–state rates. The school maintains transfer agreements with many four–year colleges, including Bellevue University, Capella University, Cardinal Stritch University, and Concordia University.
Moraine Park Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, located in Fennimore, offers a catalog of associate degrees related to various career clusters. With Southwest Tech’s suite of online programs, students can earn affordable and flexible degrees in diverse subjects. Degree offerings include a 60–credit associate degree in business management, which prepares learners for entry–level careers through training in business operations, accounting, and human resource management.
The school’s 60–credit associate in supply chain management teaches students various processes for planning, purchasing, and logistics of goods and services. Learners can also pursue a 62–credit associate degree in leadership development, which develops competencies in areas such as employment law, recruitment and hiring, workplace safety, and employee training and certification.
One of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin, the school also offers a unique healthcare program. Students can earn an associate degree in cancer information management to become cancer registrars — skilled data management experts who keep track of cancer patients’ histories, diagnoses, and treatments.
Southwest Tech’s online programs feature four–, eight–, and 16–week formats with various start times throughout the year. Students can also accelerate degree completion by earning prior learning credit for documented work experience. Online students enjoy access to one–on–one virtual assistance in subjects such as math, reading, and writing. Students can also receive online mental healthcare and financial management counseling. The school offers tuition rates that are 45% less than typical four–year colleges.
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Chippewa Valley Technical College serves 11 counties in the state and operates a main campus in Eau Claire and regional campuses in Chippewa Falls, Neillsville, Menomonie, and River Falls. One of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin, CVTC also offers several distance learning options.
The school’s online catalog includes a 60–credit associate degree in early childhood education that prepares students to work with children from birth to grade three. This degree covers topics such as child development, classroom management, and curriculum planning. The program requires four in–person practica, with each lasting eight hours per week.
CVTC’s 61–credit associate degree in business management teaches learners the operational and leadership skills necessary to make effective business decisions. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and covers management principles, finance and budgeting, accounting, and human resources.
Students interested in information technology careers can choose a 60–credit IT – software developer program that covers topics like .NET application development, Java Web programming, and database design and development.
Students may also earn an AS in liberal arts — a program designed for students who plan to transfer to a four–year college but have not decided on a major. The curriculum gives learners a general education in the humanities, social science, and math/science. Through transfer agreements, CVTC guarantees this associate degree will transfer to UW–Eau Claire, UW–River Falls, or UW–Stout. At CVTC, students can earn prior learning credits for work experience, which accelerates degree completion.
Chippewa Valley Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College operates four campuses throughout the northwest region of Wisconsin. WITC serves one in 16 people in the community with career–focused associate degrees and certificates. Students can also earn an associate degree through WITC’s flexible online learning options.
The school’s 60–credit associate degree in accounting teaches learners about financial, cost, and managerial accounting, as well as how to use software programs such as Quickbooks, Excel, and Access. Students passionate about law can earn a 64–credit associate degree in criminal justice, which prepares learners for careers in protective services, such as police dispatcher and security officer roles. The curriculum includes courses on policing strategies, the juvenile justice system, criminology, and traffic law enforcement.
The 60–credit E–CHiLD associate degree blends virtual learning and student teaching in the community. Students examine topics like behavior guidance, infant and toddler development, and children with differing abilities. Students in E–CHiLD must participate in live face–to–face sessions in a virtual classroom one evening per week. Participants are also eligible for the state’s T.E.A.C.H. Early, Childhood scholarship.
Students at WITC may choose from several other career and technical education programs, such as associate degrees in health information technology, IT – cybersecurity specialist, nursing, and veterinary technician. One of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin, WITC also offers a university transfer associate of science degree that is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s track.
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
At Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, about 32,000 students enroll in programs each year. NWTC delivers 200 programs through campuses in Green Bay, Marinette, and Sturgeon Bay; at five regional learning centers; and online. Students study in classrooms with a 16–to–1 student–to–faculty ratio.
The school’s online associate degrees blend general education with technical skills. Students interested in a business career can earn degrees accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. NWTC offers a 70–credit associate degree in accounting that examines areas such as payroll accounting; inventory control; accounts payable/receivable; and tax, cost, and public accounting. The school’s 70–credit business management associate degree teaches learners core skills in operational areas such as accounting, marketing, and human resource management.
Students can learn how to provide services to older clients and their families through a 65–credit associate degree in gerontology. This program explores topics like developmental psychology, physical aspects of aging, Alzheimer’s and dementia, and death and dying. Students may also pursue an associate degree in supply chain management or enroll in the school’s individualized technical studies program to customize an occupational degree plan.
Programs may require an internship, practicum, or some on–campus participation. A FlexEd option for some programs allows students to complete accelerated eight–week classes or choose how they learn each week. NWTC is one of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin and facilitates student transfer through agreements with 40 institutions.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
For more than 100 years, Northcentral Technical College has served students in central Wisconsin. NTC’s seven campuses include sites in Antigo, Medford, and Wausau. NTC also works with district high schools to give students an early start on college credits. Learners interested in virtual learning can choose from many options at NTC — one of the most affordable online colleges in Wisconsin.
Students can begin their careers as educators with the 61–credit foundations of teacher education program. Students study topics such as classroom management, tutoring, and assessment. Alternatively, the school’s 64–credit healthcare business administration degree teaches students how to process insurance claims at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. Students interested in an IT career can also choose from four associate degree options: IT – computer support specialist, IT – cybersecurity specialist, IT – web designer, and IT – software developer.
Students can learn how to start their own business by earning a 63–credit associate degree in small business entrepreneurship. This program develops proficiencies in areas such as sales, accounting, QuickBooks, business law, and social media campaigns. NTC’s extensive catalog also includes associate programs in fields such as video production, substance use disorder counseling, and sports and recreation management.
NTC maintains articulation agreements with many four–year colleges, such as the University of Wisconsin, Colorado State University, and Rasmussen College, ensuring that students can seamlessly transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree. Students who live out of state benefit from competitive tuition rates at NTC.
Northcentral Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
