Online Colleges In Wisconsin

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Updated September 21, 2023

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Wisconsin maintains one of the best economies in the U.S. because of industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. The Badger State's low 3% unemployment rate (as of October 2018) and state data reveal many opportunities for job seekers.

A 2015 report by the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce found that 62% of the state's jobs will require workers with postsecondary education by 2020; 36% will require some college education such as an associate degree, 19% will require a bachelor's, and 8% will require a master's or higher. A more recent list of Wisconsin's hot jobs reinforces this notion, as 60% of its featured jobs require some form of postsecondary education. Keep in mind that those who have earned a postsecondary degree generally land jobs that not only pay salaries above the state median, but also enjoy the most projected openings.

This resource outlines Wisconsin's employment needs and offers several benefits of attending affordable online colleges in the state. Those thinking about college will also learn about transferring credits, financial aid, and college resources for Wisconsin's online colleges.

This ranking of Wisconsin's top affordable online colleges looks at a number of factors, such as accreditation status, breadth of online programs, and tuition value. The ranking also considers graduation rates, available financial aid, and student services like academic and career counseling.


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AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Programs

These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online graduate degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online Master's or PhD programs.

Wisconsin's Top Affordable Online Colleges

#1 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

Viterbo University

  • La Crosse, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private institution located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Viterbo University ranks among the best online schools. The accredited school's undergraduate and graduate programs enroll a combined 809 distance learners.

The school meets the career goals of all kinds of students by offering virtual programs in many top-choice disciplines, such as healthcare, STEM, and business. The virtual programs use online classroom spaces to engage participants. Distance learners typically meet in-person requirements in their local area. The school makes student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring available to remote enrollees.

Most degree-seekers complete a bachelor's program in four years. Those with prior college experience can graduate in less time by transferring credits toward their degree. Some programs offer accelerated options as well.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,960
Out-of-state
$27,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,864
Out-of-state
$8,864
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
2,592
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

Lakeland University

  • Plymouth, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Lakeland University, located in Plymouth, Wisconsin, enrolls undergraduate and graduate learners in 54 virtual programs. Online schools provide degree-seekers with learning flexibility. Students can pursue some of the nation’s top-ranked degrees at the institution. Enrollees typically complete bachelor's degrees in four years or less with transfer credits. Students can complete master’s degrees in a variety of fields. Some graduate programs enhance participants' learning with field experience in the community.

Degree-seekers complete affordable degrees at the school. The college requires school transcripts for admission. The degrees at Lakeland University have accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Lakeland University Facts:

Number of Programs: 54

Online Bachelor’s Programs: 12

Number of Master’s Programs Available Online: 1

In-State Tuition for Undergraduates: $28,576

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,576
Out-of-state
$28,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,286
Out-of-state
$11,286
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
2,511
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

Maranatha Baptist University

  • Watertown, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A Watertown, Wisconsin, institution, Maranatha Baptist University offers degrees on campus and online as a private institution. Students nationwide choose to enroll remotely in the school's programs. The college meets the career goals of all kinds of graduates by offering virtual programs in many top-choice disciplines, such as healthcare, STEM, and business.

Undergraduate and graduate learners find many online program options at the school. For undergraduate programs, degree-seekers attend general education and foundation courses. Enrollees also take higher-level courses in their major. Online classes and seminars help graduate program participants build higher-level skills.

Reaching out to the school can help prospective applicants learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. To get connected to financial aid opportunities, students can work with the accredited institution.

Maranatha Baptist University Fast Facts:

Online Enrollment: 382

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Student Acceptance Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 55%

Transfer Credits Accepted: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,840
Out-of-state
$6,840
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
985
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin–Madison

  • Madison, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Wisconsin–Madison, a public school, enrolls students in undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online. Learners choose from a catalog of 492 online degrees. Students receive a comprehensive education in the liberal arts and professional studies. The school catalog offers a variety of programs.

The curriculum blends classroom theory and practical experience, such as internships and practicums. Participants meet faculty, complete group work, and network with peers during residencies. Enrollees can complete most degrees entirely online. Professors bring real-world experience to the classroom. Distance learners receive online tutoring services and other assistance. 

Applicants can expect a 54% acceptance rate at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Students pay for their degree with competitive tuition rates and financial aid. Degree-seekers pay the same tuition regardless of in-state or out-of-state residency. Undergraduates receive an average total aid of $9,754. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,273
Out-of-state
$36,333
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,728
Out-of-state
$24,054
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
44,257
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Stout

  • Menomonie, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A top online institution, the University of Wisconsin-Stout is a public school located in Menomonie, Wisconsin. Across its undergraduate and graduate programs, the accredited school enrolls 3,907 distance learners. Degree options at the institution include two online bachelor's programs and ten online master's programs.

The school features online programs in many popular majors, like business, healthcare and STEM, meeting the career goals of many different students. Virtual learning environments help participants engage with the online program material. Distance learners typically meet in-person requirements in their local area. The school makes student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring available to online enrollees.

It generally takes four years for degree-seekers to earn their bachelor's. Those with prior college experience can graduate in less time by transferring credits toward their degree. Prospective applicants can also check out programs with accelerated options.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,014
Out-of-state
$14,981
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,155
Out-of-state
$15,465
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
8,413
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Superior

  • Superior, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Superior, Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Superior features many different options for degree-seekers from all walks of life. The nonprofit institution offers a comprehensive catalog that includes liberal arts and professional studies degrees. Online learners can conveniently earn accredited degrees while they continue careers.

Online students traditionally complete a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in four years. Enrollees complete a master’s degree in about two years. Distance learners view live and recorded classes. Program participants earn degrees through a mix of classroom lectures and practical experiences, such as internships or practicums. Virtual degree-seekers complete assignments within a set timeframe.

The school's catalog includes certificates or associate degrees for new students. Enrollees receive support from online services, such as tutoring and career advising. Learners pay competitive tuition for online degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. The school awards an average total aid per enrollee of $5,517. Online degree-seekers can expect an admission rate of 82%. The University of Wisconsin-Superior is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$14,108
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,640
Out-of-state
$16,771
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
2,614
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville

  • Platteville, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville operates a public campus in Platteville, Wisconsin, to offer degrees in person and remotely. The school's online programs attract students from all over the country. The college meets the career goals of all kinds of graduates by offering virtual programs in many top-choice disciplines, such as healthcare, STEM, and business.

The school's distance learners choose from many undergraduate and graduate programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers gain foundational knowledge in general education classes. They also take advanced coursework in their major. Graduate enrollees gain higher-level skills by taking online classes and attending seminars.

Reaching out to the school can help prospective students learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. To get connected to financial aid opportunities, learners can work with the accredited institution.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Numbers:

Number of Virtual Learners: 1,475

Student Admission Rate: 85%

Percent of Students who Graduate: 56%

Accepts Transfer Credits: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,418
Out-of-state
$14,268
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,640
Out-of-state
$16,771
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
8,271
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  • Milwaukee, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, a public college, enrolls students in undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online. Students pursue degrees from a catalog of 243 total programs. Online programs provide a comprehensive liberal arts and professional education. Degree-seekers can pursue programs in various fields.

Enrollees learn from classroom lectures and practical experiences, such as internships and practicums. Virtual learners may need to complete limited on-campus residencies. Most online programs require no on-campus visits. Students gain practical experience applicable to the real world. The college provides services such as online tutoring in various subjects. 

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has an admission rate of 77%. The school’s affordable tuition and financial aid help students pay for their degree. Learners pay the same tuition regardless of residency. The college awards an average total aid per enrollee of $6,491. The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,091
Out-of-state
$19,661
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,543
Out-of-state
$23,775
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
25,731
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

  • Eau Claire, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public Wisconsin institution, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers degrees online and on campus. Students nationwide choose to enroll online in the school's programs. In-demand degrees in healthcare, business, and STEM are available at the online college, helping graduates reach their professional goals.

Many of the school's undergraduate and graduate programs enroll distance learners. Undergraduate degrees feature general education classes and foundation courses. Enrollees also take higher-level courses in their major. Participation in seminars and online classes help graduate learners build advanced skills.

Prospective applicants can find out more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates by contacting the school. The accredited institution also connects students with financial aid opportunities.

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire at a Glance:

Total Online Students Enrolled: 3,133

Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Percent of Students Admitted: 82%

Graduation Percentage: 67%

Transfer Credits Permitted: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,361
Out-of-state
$15,636
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,027
Out-of-state
$18,061
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
11,255
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

  • La Crosse, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse receive the same education as on-campus peers. A public school, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse enrolls students in seven online programs. Many of the institution's virtual programs rank among the best in the nation. Degree-seekers can earn bachelor’s and graduate degrees in a variety of fields. Online enrollees enjoy benefits such as asynchronous learning.

The school's online degrees offer asynchronous learning and affordability. Working students transfer credits to finish degrees faster. The application process at many schools no longer requires test scores. Distance learners applying to the school can expect a 73% admission rate. The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Numbers:

School Status: Public

Number of Virtual Learners: 3,129

Number of Online Programs: 7

Total Bachelor’s Degrees Online: 2

Yearly In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $7,585

Yearly Out-of-State Undergraduate Tuition: $16,404

Admission Rate: 73%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,585
Out-of-state
$16,404
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,651
Out-of-state
$18,637
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
10,623
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

  • Stevens Point, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A top-ranked school, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point offers undergraduate and graduate programs on its campus and online. At the accredited college, 3,173 students enroll in virtual programs. Online degree-seekers choose from the public institution's three bachelor's and two master's programs.

Enrollees interested in many different fields find programs at the online school to suit them, such as those in business, healthcare, and STEM. Virtual programs usually feature a remote learning environment for online participants to do their classwork. Designing an individualized plan of study with academic advisors and faculty mentors benefits many students. Tutoring services, financial aid counseling, and career services at the school support online degree-seekers in their educational pursuits.

Most bachelor's programs require at least 120 credits, while master's programs require a minimum of 30 credits. Scholarships, federal financial aid, and other forms of financial aid are usually available to learners enrolled remotely.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,698
Out-of-state
$15,402
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,066
Out-of-state
$17,706
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
8,332
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

  • Whitewater, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

As one of the best schools, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater features undergraduate and graduate degrees offered remotely and on campus. Online enrollment at the accredited college currently totals 4,715.

Enrollees at the online school choose from programs in diverse fields, such as healthcare, business, and STEM. Remote participants complete classwork in a virtual learning environment to earn their online degree. By collaborating with faculty mentors and academic advisors, students create a course of study tailored to their needs. Tutoring services, financial aid counseling, and career services at the school support online degree-seekers in their educational pursuits.

It takes 120 credits to earn most bachelor's degrees and 30 to earn most master's. Learners enrolled online generally qualify for different types of financial aid, like scholarships or federal aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,519
Out-of-state
$15,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,108
Out-of-state
$17,797
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
12,452
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

  • Green Bay, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The country's best online colleges include the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay among their rank. The accredited institution's distance learners have three online bachelor's programs to choose from. The academic offerings for graduate students include the online school's four online master's programs. The school currently enrolls a total of 4,503 remote degree-seekers.

Distance learners complete classes remotely from anywhere in the country. The institution tailors some of its student services just for online enrollees. The online school provides its students with academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services.

People from all different backgrounds choose from programs in some of the most popular disciplines. Distance learners earn an accredited degree that qualifies them for many different career paths. Affordability is one of the institution's top priorities.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,298
Out-of-state
$14,516
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,996
Out-of-state
$17,551
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
8,766
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

  • Oshkosh, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Working students studying online receive the same education as on-campus peers at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. The public school offers nine online degrees. The school’s virtual programs rank among the nation’s best. The university offers bachelor’s and graduate degrees in many fields. Working professionals choose online learning so they can continue their careers.

The institution's online degrees offer asynchronous learning and affordability. Online learners transfer credits to finish degrees faster. Many schools no longer require admissions tests. The school reports a 76% admission rate. The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Fast Facts:

School Status: Public

Distance Learners Enrolled: 1,533

Online Programs Available: 9

Total Bachelor’s Programs Online: 3

Tuition Costs for Undergraduate Students: $6,422 a year in-state; $13,955 a year out-of-state

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,422
Out-of-state
$13,955
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,793
Out-of-state
$17,107
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
15,521
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Online Colleges In Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside

  • Kenosha, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A top online institution, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside is a public school located in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The accredited college teaches 2,055 distance learners across its undergraduate and graduate programs. Online degree-seekers pick from two bachelor's programs and three master's programs.

The school meets the needs of many different students by offering online programs in top-choice majors such as healthcare, business, and STEM. Remote classroom spaces let participants engage with the virtual program content. Local internships, practicums, clinicals, and other placements help online learners meet in-person requirements. Remote students at the school get access to academic advising, online tutoring, and career counseling.

Most degree-seekers earn their bachelor's in four years. Transfer credits from other institutions let people graduate in less time. Accelerated program options are available as well.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,298
Out-of-state
$14,568
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,028
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
4,388
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Why Choose Wisconsin for Online Higher Education?

Online learning provides students from diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to acquire new skills, update old ones, and earn a degree while juggling multiple obligations. Online learning benefits learners who need a more flexible schedule. Wisconsin provides these learners with 102 programs delivered completely online, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Learners increasingly turn to online colleges — with 14,675 undergraduates, 7,900 graduate students, and 171 international students enrolled exclusively online in Wisconsin in 2016.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Cost of Attending an Online College in Wisconsin

The cost of tuition often varies greatly and depends on whether a students resides in state or out of state. In general, to qualify for in-state tuition, students must show proof of residency in Wisconsin for at least 12 consecutive months. An increasing number of online universities charge the same tuition regardless of a student's residency. Learners should do their research to determine which schools offer one tuition for all.

Learners who live out of state may also qualify for in-state tuition if they live in one of 10 member states that form the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP), a program of the Midwestern Higher Education Compact. States in this compact include Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska. In general, Wisconsin's residents pay $16,194 for in-state tuition at four-year public institutions, according to NCES 2016 data; out-of-state learners not in the compact pay $21,327. Alternately, Wisconsin residents planning to attend a public two-year institution pay $4,382 for in-state tuition, compared to $7,336 for out-of-state students.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics, 2017 Explore Online

Tuition at Wisconsin colleges costs less than the national average for four-year institutions, according to NCES data. The national average for in-state and out-of-state tuition at four-year public institutions stands at $19,189 and $24,354, respectively. The national average for in-state and out-of-state tuition at two-year public colleges stands at $3,038 and $7,409, respectively.

Learners who plan to study online save money because they do not need to pay for room and board and transportation. Learners may also save on fees that on-campus students pay since many programs charge only tuition, with no additional fees for online learners. The following list highlights undergraduate tuition rates for online degrees at some of the most affordable online schools in Wisconsin.

Considering a Wisconsin School as an Out-of-State Student

Learners who live out of state but who want to attend Wisconsin's online colleges need to consider the cost of tuition. NCES's 2016 IPEDS data notes that out-of-state undergraduate students studying exclusively online in Wisconsin can expect to pay $2,997; graduate students pay $2,808. They should also consider that discounts through the Midwest Student Exchange Program will impact tuition if they live in a member state. While many states belong to the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA), learners should make sure that SARA allows Wisconsin to provide distance learning in their state.

Tuition Discounts

Wisconsin serves as one of the 12 states in the Midwestern Higher Education Compact. The compact oversees the Midwest Student Exchange Program, which provides learners with opportunities to study affordably within 10 member states: Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. More than 100 colleges and universities participate in the MSEP and agree to charge learners in participating states no more than 150% of the in-state resident tuition rate for specific programs, and offer a 10% reduction on tuition rates at private colleges. This could save learners between $500 and $5,000 annually, according to the MSEP. Furthermore, Minnesota and Wisconsin share a tuition reciprocity agreement in which residents in each state pay in-state tuition at the other state's public colleges.

State Authorizations for Online Learning

SARA oversees the delivery of distance education among participating states. Once states join SARA by meeting certain established criteria, their colleges may apply to operate under the agreement. Wisconsin's students benefit from enhanced access to affordable, high-quality educational offerings in member states and vice versa.

Check with an Admissions or Financial Officer.
Tuition rates are ultimately program and institution based. Ask someone from a prospective program about what rates apply to you specifically as a potential member of a specific program.

One-Stop College Research Resources for Wisconsin's Online Schools

These frequently asked questions about online schooling in Wisconsin can assist you in your research efforts to find the most affordable accredited online programs.

Do Online Credits Cost More or Less in Wisconsin?

As learners try to find the cheapest online colleges, they should carefully review and compare the tuition information for each school on their list. Each school establishes the per-credit cost of tuition, which may even vary among programs within the same institution. Students should also take note of any additional fees to ensure that they don't end up spending significantly more than the per-credit tuition advertised.

Which Wisconsin Schools Accept the Most Transfer Credits?

Schools within the University of Wisconsin (UW) System follow established guidelines for credit transfers that may differ from other schools outside the System. Most campuses require transfer students to meet residency requirements — a minimum number of credits they must complete at the institution. Learners from two-year UW colleges or the Wisconsin Technical College System can transfer up to 72 credits from a nonbaccalaureate program. The same guidelines apply to nonresident students, and some UW campuses may accept more credits. Furthermore, learners may receive credit for external tests and courses they may have taken.

Learners may use TRANSFEROLOGY to receive an unofficial evaluation of how their credits apply towards specific degree requirements in the UW system. They can also use this website to see how these credits fulfill requirements at other schools in Wisconsin and around the country. Credit transfer guidelines for colleges outside of the UW system vary, and learners should consult each school's website to access that information. Note that a school, including campuses within the UW system, may also require that applicants complete a placement test for admission.

Will Any Online Colleges in Wisconsin Accept a GED?

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction issues a GED certificate after learners complete tests in five areas. Most community colleges and technical colleges accept the GED certificate for admission into programs, whether delivered online or on campus. They often require that applicants also submit test scores for the Accuplacer, SAT, ACT, or Compass. Some four-year institutions require a high school diploma and the SAT or ACT for admission. Others, like the University of Wisconsin System, accept the GED as long as applicants submit GED scores, high school transcripts, official test scores for the SAT or ACT, and GPA scores for any completed college courses.

How Many Academic Terms per Year Do Online Colleges in Wisconsin Offer?

The University of Wisconsin online school offers the UW Flex Option that allows learners to earn an online degree on their terms. Designed for learners with some college credit or work experience, the program allows learners to start any month, study at their own pace, and take tests at their convenience. Learners may earn an associate or bachelor's degree in select fields, such as business administration, health sciences, and nursing.

As learners begin to develop a list of online colleges, they should identify start dates to determine if the schools match their need for flexibility. Many schools offering online programs enroll students in the traditional fall, spring, and summer terms. But others may have multiple start dates for online programs throughout the year. Students should consult the website of each school to access admissions information such as program start dates and necessary application materials.

Which Online Colleges Will Accept the FAFSA in Wisconsin?

Any college in Wisconsin that awards federal financial aid requires that applicants submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), regardless of whether the student is attending online or on campus. After students fill out the FAFSA, the results determine the student's expected family contribution and their eligibility for federal financial aid. Then, once the colleges receive this information, the financial aid office awards the needed aid.

Since only students attending accredited colleges qualify for financial aid, learners should make sure the online school they plan to attend in Wisconsin holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Note that male residents of Wisconsin who seek financial aid from the state or the U.S. Department of Education must register with the United States Selective Service System.

Are There Any Free Online Classes I Can Take From Wisconsin Colleges?

The University of Wisconsin-Madison provides free online courses through massive open online courses (MOOCs). UW-Madison's courses cover topics such as forests and humans, the changing climate, human evolution, and video games and learning. Learners join the website for free and take free classes from other institutions in the state or around the country.

Another MOOCs provider, Coursera, offers an extensive catalog of free and fee-based courses taught by faculty from colleges and universities around the country. After learners in Wisconsin or elsewhere join Coursera for free, they can immediately begin searching for courses. The virtual college provides video lectures, auto-graded assignments, and community discussion forums. Although many courses require a fee, learners pay an affordable price.

How Can I Find the Online Program Options at Wisconsin's Colleges?

The UW System eCampus offers learners more than 150 online degrees and certificates from campuses across the University of Wisconsin's system. Through eCampus, learners can earn one of more than 60 bachelor's degrees online in fields such as nursing, business management, criminal justice, and communication arts. Successful completion of the associate of arts and science provides learners with guaranteed entry into a UW system campus of the student's choosing. The eCampus also offers the UW flexible option, in which nontraditional students apply previous education, work experience, and prior knowledge toward an associate or bachelor's degree.

University of Wisconsin Colleges Online offers online programs from colleges in Wisconsin. Students choose from more than 125 courses from UW Colleges and two degree types: associate of arts and sciences, and the bachelor of applied arts and sciences. Learners pay one flat per-credit tuition rate. Since many colleges in Wisconsin offer online courses, learners should visit their websites to review catalogs.

Wisconsin Scholarships and Grants

Prospective students planning to pay for their education with financial aid should look to Pell Grants as a good first option because they do not need to be repaid. Since not everyone qualifies for the need-based program, the following list provides five options to help fund online programs in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Grant Program

The Wisconsin Grant Program provides financial assistance to Wisconsin residents enrolled in undergraduate programs at least half time at select institutions. The need-based grant focuses exclusively on programs at Wisconsin Technical College, University of Wisconsin, or Tribal institutions.

Scholarship Amount: Up to $3,150



Roma Lodge Scholarships

Each year, the Roma Lodge offers scholarships to children of members of the lodge who would like to pursue postsecondary education in the U.S. Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, leadership qualities, and U.S. citizenship.

Scholarship Amount: $4,000



Zonta Club of Madison Young Women in Public Affairs Award

Zonta International encourages female high school seniors around the world to pursue careers in public affairs. The organization recognizes young women who demonstrate superior leadership skills; it awards up to 32 district scholarships each year.

Scholarship Amount: $1,500



NATAS-Upper Midwest Chapter/Foundation Scholarships

The Upper Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences offers student scholarships to high school or college students living in the five-state areas that the organization serves, including western Wisconsin. Learners can apply the money toward tuition for majors in video journalism or electronic media production.

Scholarship Amount: Up to $2,000



Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) The Presbyterian Church offers need-based scholarships to its members who are attending accredited institutions in any state in the U.S. Applicants must attend school full time as sophomores, juniors, or seniors, and carry a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Scholarship Amount: Up to $3,000


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