Best
Value Colleges in Wisconsin in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Wisconsin combines foundational coursework with practical experience. Students typically study accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, and data analytics, often completing team projects or internships. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or management analyst. Popular Wisconsin choices include the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, UW-Milwaukee, UW-Whitewater, and UW-Eau Claire, which offer business programs suited to diverse career goals and interests.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Wisconsin offers coursework in human development, research methods, statistics, cognition, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Students across Wisconsin at universities such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, UW-Milwaukee, and UW-Whitewater can explore behavior through labs, internships, and community placements. A bachelor's degree may prepare graduates for roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, or human resources specialist; graduate study supports careers in counseling, clinical practice, and school psychology.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Wisconsin combines programming and theory with practical problem-solving. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students may build projects through internships with the state's technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and finance employers. Popular options include the University of Wisconsin-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, Marquette University, and Milwaukee School of Engineering. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or IT project managers statewide.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Wisconsin combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice with supervised fieldwork. Programs may prepare graduates for roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, career counselor, or substance use counselor, depending on level and licensure. Wisconsin options include the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, which offer counseling or counselor education pathways. Compare accreditation and clinical requirements.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Wisconsin combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses commonly include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and maternal-newborn care. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies, depending on degree and licensure. Wisconsin colleges offering nursing study include the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, UW-Milwaukee, and Edgewood College, among others.

Best Colleges in Wisconsin Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 19,698, compared with 47,516 at schools in the top 10% - a higher median cost among the top-ranked schools.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students across the schools, versus 79.92% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is also 79.92%.
• Schools receive an average of 5,899.89 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 9,369.2. The median number of applicants is 1,478 men and 1,594 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,165.93 and 23.68, respectively.
• Schools enroll an average of 5,093.81 students, including 448.43 men and 534.76 women.
• The average graduation rate is 56.12%, compared with 71.1% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 54.0% for men and 60.5% for women.
• There are 26 institutions offering associate's degrees, 42 offering bachelor's degrees, 39 offering master's degrees, and 14 offering doctor's degrees.
• Of the schools, 40 are coeducational, 0 are men's schools, and 0 are women's schools.
• When choosing a Wisconsin college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant and enrollment figures, graduation outcomes, and the degree options available. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and graduation rates, so consider how those factors fit your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Wisconsin cost?

The average cost of studying in Wisconsin is $26,051.28, while average tuition and fees are $24,511.26. These figures offer a useful starting point as you plan for a degree, although your full degree cost will depend on how many years you attend, your program, and your college. Room and board average $11,077.63, and books and supplies average $893.76. Treat these as separate averages rather than adding them to the total, since the reported categories may use different calculations.

For example, students comparing the University of Wisconsin-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, and Marquette University should check each school's current tuition, housing, and program-specific charges. Wisconsin residents may also find that public university options fit their budgets differently from private colleges, while scholarships, grants, and living at home can reduce what you pay out of pocket. Comparing the net price after aid is a practical way to see what earning your Wisconsin degree may cost.

How long does it take to finish college in Wisconsin?

At Wisconsin colleges, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Students at UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, and Marquette University may need longer if they attend part-time, change majors, or pause their studies; planning ahead can make the timeline feel manageable.

Wisconsin's average graduation rate is 56.12%, so a little over half of students graduate. Among the top 10% of schools, the average is higher at 71.1%. The average is 50.16% for men and 59.5% for women, showing outcomes vary and support and persistence matter.

To finish sooner, Wisconsin students can consider options such as:

• Bring in AP, dual-enrollment, or previously earned college credits where accepted.
• Take summer classes or heavier course loads, if financially and academically practical.
• Explore accelerated programs, online courses, and credit-by-exam opportunities through their college.

Meet with an academic adviser early to map prerequisites and avoid missed-course delays.

Salary

Graduates of Wisconsin colleges and universities earn a median alumni salary of about $49,210. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is approximately $60,949 - a promising benchmark as you plan your career after college.

Wisconsin offers many paths to a degree, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and UW-Milwaukee to Marquette University. Your earnings can vary depending on your field, degree, experience, and employer, so these figures are useful benchmarks rather than guarantees. Fields that require specialized skills or advanced training may offer different salary prospects.

• Median alumni salary: about $49,210
• Median for graduates of top 10% schools: about $60,949

People also ask

What college in Wisconsin has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one single answer without knowing whether you mean in-state tuition, out-of-state tuition, or a particular degree program. Wisconsin's public technical colleges are often among the least expensive options, especially for students pursuing certificates or associate degrees. Compare tuition, fees, and program costs directly; for a four-year bachelor's degree, check the University of Wisconsin campuses.

What are Tier 1 schools in Wisconsin?

"Tier 1" isn't a single official designation, so the answer depends on the ranking system. If you mean major research universities, UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee are Wisconsin institutions classified in the Carnegie Research 1 category. If you mean a particular college ranking, its criteria may differ - so it's worth checking what "Tier 1" means in the list you're using.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Wisconsin Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Wisconsin-Madison is a large public research university in Madison, offering Wisconsin students a broad range of academic paths and an energetic campus environment. With 51,822 enrolled students, it provides the scale and resources of a major institution. Its graduation rate is 90%, and its acceptance rate is 45%. The listed total cost of studying is $40,506, while median alumni salary is $56,150. For in-state applicants seeking strong outcomes and extensive opportunities, it is a Wisconsin choice worth exploring.

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a public university in Wisconsin's largest city, where students can combine campus study with urban life and regional opportunities. Its enrollment is 22,876, with a 49% graduation rate and a 91% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of studying is $20,772, and median alumni salary is $49,687. For Wisconsin residents comparing access and affordability, Milwaukee's city setting may appeal, while the university's public mission supports study across many fields and connections to communities throughout southeastern Wisconsin.

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is a public university in western Wisconsin, known for its welcoming campus setting and student-focused atmosphere. With 9,020 enrolled students, it offers a smaller scale than the state's largest campuses while still providing varied academic options. The graduation rate is 64%, and the acceptance rate is 82%. Its listed total cost of studying is $17,517, and median alumni salary is $48,732. For Wisconsin students seeking a mid-sized university experience, Eau Claire merits consideration close to home.

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh is a public university in east-central Wisconsin, serving students seeking a campus experience in a smaller city. Its 13,073 enrolled students create a community, while the 46% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate offer useful context for comparing outcomes and admissions. The listed total cost of studying is $14,975, and median alumni salary is $52,760. Wisconsin applicants weighing cost and post-college earnings may find Oshkosh compelling, with a location keeping them connected to communities across the region.

University of Wisconsin-River Falls is a public university in western Wisconsin, offering students a campus setting in a smaller community. With 5,417 enrolled students, it may suit applicants who prefer a personal scale than a large urban institution. Its graduation rate is 57%, and acceptance rate is 82%. The listed total cost of studying is $15,583, while median alumni salary is $46,187. For Wisconsin residents, River Falls provides an option to compare when balancing campus size, cost, and future earnings.