Best Value Online Schools in Wisconsin 2021

Updated November 29, 2022

Now is a great time to consider applying to Wisconsin online colleges. Here, we list the best programs for 2021.

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Online learning often makes higher education more accessible. Many excellent colleges in Wisconsin offer online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Both in-state and out-of-state students can attend these programs. Learners can also enroll in online certificate programs. Distance learners typically use a learning management system such as Canvas or Blackboard to review class materials, communicate with professors and peers, and complete coursework.

Students attending online college in Wisconsin can choose programs that align with the state's largest industries, including business, healthcare, and education. These fields employ approximately 750,000 workers in the state, and each feature competitive salaries. Job applicants with a degree are often more competitive for positions.

Featured Online Programs

Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.

In Wisconsin, online programs generally feature the same admission requirements as on-campus programs. Applicants to some accelerated bachelor's programs may need an associate degree or adequate transfer credit. Master's and doctoral programs often require applicants to submit recommendation letters, standardized test scores, and a resume.

Accreditation for Online Schools in Wisconsin



The U.S. Department of Education charters six regional accrediting agencies to evaluate the quality of postsecondary institutions. These agencies review each school's academic programs against a set of criteria. The Higher Learning Commission grants regional accreditation to Wisconsin colleges and universities. Many employers only recognize degrees from regionally accredited schools.

Prospective students should confirm that each online college in Wisconsin they consider holds national accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). DEAC accreditation signifies that the school's online programs meet the same high standards as its on-campus programs.

Some programs hold field-specific accreditation from a private agency or organization. This accreditation demonstrates that the program prepares students for careers in the field. Prospective enrollees can determine the credibility of a programmatic accreditation agency using the Council for Higher Education Accreditation's website.

FAQ

Question Answer
How much does college cost in Wisconsin? Public colleges in Wisconsin charge in-state students reduced tuition rates. Although out-of-state learners typically pay more in tuition, they can often offset costs with financial aid and scholarships.
How fast can you earn a bachelor's degree online? Degree completion time depends on the student's educational background. First-time freshmen typically need at least four years to earn a bachelor's degree. However, an associate degree-holder may graduate in 1-2 years.
Are online degrees credible? Wisconsin online programs from accredited schools present the same value as degrees earned on campus. Online learners receive the same diploma and official transcripts.
Can you get your master's online? Many excellent online colleges in Wisconsin offer master's degrees in various subjects. Full-time learners typically earn their master's in 2-3 years, depending on their field and enrollment status.

Colleges in Wisconsin use the same admission requirements for online and on-campus students. Undergraduate applicants must typically submit high school or college transcripts, standardized test scores, and other supporting documents. Applicants to graduate programs often must provide recommendation letters. Learners should contact each prospective online college in Wisconsin to learn about specific requirements and deadlines.

Colleges and universities require distance learners to meet the same academic standards as on-campus students. Schools may put online students on academic probation if their GPA falls below a certain threshold. Additionally, degree-seekers may need to complete a capstone project or thesis, which graduates can use as part of a professional portfolio.

Certifications and Licensure for Students in Wisconsin



Students and working professionals can enhance their career prospects by earning a license or certificate. Licensure and certification demonstrate that the holder has honed specialized skills. State-issued licensure is typically mandatory to work in certain fields, while private organizations confer voluntary certification to members and other qualified professionals.

Certified Public Accountant

States issue CPA licensure to accountants who meet education and experience requirements. CPA candidates must pass the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Exam, and some states require an ethics exam. To maintain CPA licensure, professionals must complete at least 40 continuing education credits each year and submit renewal documents by their state's deadline.

Project Management Professional

The Project Management Institute awards this credential to business professionals with advanced project management skills. Candidates need a bachelor's degree, at least three years of experience leading projects, and 35 continuing education credits in project management. The institute also offers an alternative certification pathway for individuals with only a high school diploma.

Wisconsin Teaching License

Wisconsin K-12 public school teachers need a license in the grade and subject they teach. Licensure requirements include a bachelor's degree and completion of a state-approved teacher-preparation program. Candidates must also pass a background check. Teachers renew their license periodically, and those who meet specific requirements can obtain a higher-tier license.

Professional Organizations for Students in Wisconsin



Professional organizations offer many benefits for students in Wisconsin. Members can network with peers, participate in mentorship programs, and apply for exclusive scholarships. Other resources often include industry publications and job-hunting advice. Additionally, many professional organizations allow students to join for a low introductory fee.

This national honor society recognizes academically gifted college students who are planning to enter the marketing field. Members can apply for scholarships worth $500-$1,500. Other membership benefits include graduation regalia and networking opportunities. Candidates must receive an institutional recommendation.

Wisconsin students preparing for careers as K-12 public school educators can join NEA. Membership benefits include professional insurance, which is a requirement for student teaching and a career in education. Members can also access resources including professional publications, financial planning advice, and scholarship opportunities.

Founded in 1897, this honor society recognizes high-achieving students in all academic disciplines. Membership requirements include an institutional recommendation and status as an undergraduate upperclassmen or graduate student. Members receive access to resources including scholarships, a career center, and internship opportunities. Prospective members can use the organization's website to learn whether their school hosts a Phi Kappa Phi chapter.

Educators at in-state postsecondary schools and graduate students preparing for careers in academia can join WCPA. Membership benefits include professional development opportunities, awards, and scholarships. Members also receive a quarterly newsletter detailing upcoming events. Each year, WCPA's conference addresses a challenge facing higher education.

Although many online colleges in Wisconsin offer affordable tuition rates, students can pursue scholarship opportunities to minimize debt and out-of-pocket costs. Both in-state and out-of-state learners can apply for a variety of scholarships. Students attending colleges in Wisconsin can explore a small sampling of available scholarships below.

Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation Scholarships

Who Can Apply: These awards support Wisconsin high school seniors and college students with bleeding disorders. The foundation also considers applications from children and spouses of individuals with bleeding disorders. Each scholarship uses a different application form and deadline, and some scholarships accept applications all year. The foundation maintains a list of relevant external scholarships on its website.
Amount: $250-$3,000

National Independent Automobile Dealers Association Foundation Scholarships

Who Can Apply: The NIADA Foundation awards four annual scholarships to students living in specific geographic regions. Wisconsin high school seniors can apply for the region three scholarship. The scholarship committee considers each applicant's high school GPA and ACT or SAT scores. Applications are due by March 9.
Amount: $3,500

State of Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board Financial Aid

Who Can Apply: Wisconsin residents can qualify for six grant programs from HEAB. Applicants must be first-time degree-seekers attending a nonprofit college. Men must have registered with the Selective Service System, and all applicants submit FAFSA results. Not all Wisconsin postsecondary schools participate in every HEAB grant program.
Amount: Varies

Tall Clubs International Student Scholarships

Who Can Apply: TCI awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors who plan to enter college in the fall. Candidates request an application from TCI. Prospective applicants should verify that a local TCI chapter exists in their area before requesting an application. Many chapters offer scholarships to local high school seniors.
Amount: $1,000

Wisconsin Women's Alliance Foundation Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Wisconsin women who are at least 25 years old can apply for this award. Applicants must be entering a two-year or four-year college, must study full time, and must demonstrate financial need. Candidates must also have a history of employment. The application deadline is March 31, and recipients can apply the funds to any education-related expenses. Recipients cannot reapply the following year.
Amount: $1,000

Best Value Online Schools in Wisconsin 2021



  1. University of Wisconsin - Whitewater
    Location

    Whitewater, WI

    Tuition

    $12094

    UWW Online features numerous degree and certificate programs. Undergraduates at this online college in Wisconsin can choose from 11 options, including finance, marketing, and special education. The university also offers unique master's degrees, such as environmental safety and school business management.

    Prospective undergraduate and graduate students can test drive a course. UWW also extends other success tools to online learners: virtual advising, career services, and research and library support. UWW offers 24/7 IT support services and antivirus software to degree- and certificate-seekers.

    Prospective bachelor's students should possess an associate degree or at least 60 transferable credits. Admission requirements for graduate programs vary, but they can include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, work experience, and GMAT or GRE scores. Most degrees charge in- and out-of-state learners the same per-credit tuition rate, and students may qualify for institutional aid.

  2. University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
    Location

    Green Bay, WI

    Tuition

    $12323

    Prospective undergraduates researching Wisconsin online colleges should consider UW-Green Bay's accelerated AAS degree. Learners can graduate in just five semesters and choose from four areas of emphasis: business, foundations of education, organizational development, and workforce solutions. Other online degrees offering a fulfilling and in-demand career include nursing and health information management and technology.

    UW-Green Bay promotes online learners' academic success by requiring an in-depth orientation, introducing them to different software suites and resources. Students can contact the IT department during business hours with questions and download a university app on their phone.

    UW-Green Bay accepts new online learners in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Bachelor's programs require that applicants earn an associate degree. Prospective online graduate students should possess a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and submit recommendation letters. Undergraduate degree-seekers who attempt more than 12 credits each semester pay a flat per-semester tuition rate.

  3. University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
    Location

    Oshkosh, WI

    Tuition

    $12819

    UW-Oshkosh features a diverse array of online programs in Wisconsin that include bachelor's degrees in applied computing, aviation management, and criminal justice. Some programs use an accelerated format, allowing students to earn a degree faster than their peers at other UW institutions. The university also offers graduate degrees in applied biotechnology and sustainable management.

    UW-Oshkosh provides reference technology tutorials and resources to online learners at any time of day. Polk Library offers online learning experts to make the most of the university's research databases and other resources.

    Applicants speak with an enrollment advisor to determine which materials they need to submit. Out-of-state students pay the same per-credit tuition rate as Wisconsin residents. UW-Oshkosh does not offer a flat tuition rate to full-time degree- and certificate-seekers. New learners should contact the university's financial aid office to learn more about federal, private, and institutional financial aid opportunities.

  4. University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point
    Location

    Stevens Point, WI

    Tuition

    $13599

    An online college in Wisconsin that appeals to graduate students, UWSP offers 11 master's degrees in areas such as applied biotechnology, data science, and information technology management. Bachelor's degrees include applied computing and an RN-to-BSN completion program. Certificate programs help forestry and health professionals advance their career.

    Student support services for online learners include an online readiness self-assessment, the UWSP IT service desk, and access to the Tutoring-Learning Center. The university also curates resources, with article topics covering online learning tips and self-care. Technology tutors stand ready to assist learners.

    Downloadable program degree guides allow prospective students to learn more about application materials and requirements. In-state students pay the lowest per-credit tuition rate at UWSP. Scholarship opportunities for undergraduates include the Destination Wisconsin Scholarship, an opportunity that awards $1,000-$4,000, depending on recipients' residency.

  5. Cardinal Stritch University
    Location

    Milwaukee, WI

    Tuition

    $17471

    An online college in Wisconsin situated in Milwaukee, Stritch allows undergraduate and graduate learners to prepare for a career while reaffirming their Catholic faith. Online undergraduate programs include business administration and an RN-to-BSN. Master's degree-seekers can major in educational leadership, management, or higher education student affairs. Learners who live near campus can earn a degree in a hybrid format.

    The Stritch Student Success Center (SSC) helps on-campus and online learners make the most of their education by providing them with free tutoring, the Online Writing Lab, and specialized resources for students with disabilities. SSC also offers supplemental instruction in core academic areas.

    Stritch does not charge an application fee, and admission requirements vary by degree. Learners who take 12 or more credits each semester pay a flat tuition rate, and all students save money if they take courses during the summer. Incoming freshmen can receive up to $22,000 per year in automatic scholarships based on their high school academic performance.

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