Online education is a great alternative for people that have to split their time between classes and other responsibilities, such as full-time employment or raising kids. Accredited online colleges in Wisconsin offer the flexibility of incorporating your studies into your daily life in a way that suits you best.
Moreover, online degrees from virtual schools in Wisconsin are as respected as traditional degrees. Choosing to get your degree online is the first step of career development. In this article, we’ve gathered everything you should know about the best online colleges in Wisconsin and the programs they offer.
Fully Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin: Two Types of Accreditation
Accreditations recognize a college’s credibility and quality of education. In order to gain accreditation, schools have to go through an assessment process in order to prove the quality of their academic programs and administration. Virtual schools in Wisconsin can get two types of accreditation: regional and national.
Regionally Accredited Online Colleges
Regionally accredited online colleges in Wisconsin have the approval of one of six designated regional agencies, such as the Higher Learning Commission. Typically, these schools have higher educational quality, since the standards of regional accreditation agencies are more rigorous. However, they also tend to have higher tuition rates than nationally accredited schools.
Nationally Accredited Online Colleges
National accreditation agencies compare and review institutions such as vocational, technical, and trade schools. Virtual schools in Wisconsin with this type of accreditation tend to be cheaper and have less strict admission requirements than regionally accredited schools. However, transfers are more difficult, as credits are not transferable to regionally accredited institutions.
Why Is Accreditation Important for College?
Accreditation is important for college because it ensures the academic quality of a university and its distance education programs. Accredited schools have proven their students have positive outcomes, such as high graduation rates. Moreover, attending an accredited online school will ensure that your degree will be recognized and valued by employers.
How to Find an Accredited Online College in Wisconsin
You can find out whether an online college in Wisconsin is accredited by consulting the US Department of Education’s database, consulting the accrediting agency’s website, or visiting the school’s website. Another option is visiting the College Navigator on the National Center for Education Statistics website and typing the name of the school in the browser.
Check the US Department of Education’s Database
The US Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs is a great way of finding out whether an online college in Wisconsin is accredited. All you have to do is type in the name of the school in the browser, and click on it. Then, you’ll be able to see the school profile and its accreditation status.
Search for Colleges on the Regional Accrediting Agency’s Website
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits degree-granting universities in the North Central region. You can find out whether an online college in Wisconsin is accredited by this agency by visiting HLC’s online directory and typing the name of the school in the browser. You can also select the state of Wisconsin to narrow down the school search.
Visit the School’s Official Website
You can learn about a school’s accreditation status on its official website. Many college websites have a visible section titled Accreditation. You can also find this information by searching Accreditation on the site’s search function. Look for the name of the accrediting agency, as well as the date of the accreditation or the reaffirmation of accreditation.
Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin: Overview
| Ranking | Online College | Accreditation | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 87% |
| 2 | Marquette University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 81% |
| 3 | University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 70% |
| 4 | University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 65% |
| 5 | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 64% |
| 6 | Viterbo University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 61% |
| 7 | Herzing University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 54% |
| 8 | Concordia University – Wisconsin | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 53% |
| 9 | Lakeland University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 50% |
| 10 | Maranatha Baptist University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 50% |
How We Ranked the Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin
We ranked the best accredited online colleges in Wisconsin by looking at the graduation rates of various institutions that offer fully online degree programs. The information in the table above comes from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
Best Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin: Deep Dive
Some of the best accredited online colleges in Wisconsin are parts of the University of Wisconsin (UW) system, such as UW-Madison, UW-LaCrosse, UW-Whitewater, and UW-Eau Claire. Other accredited schools that also offer distance learning programs are Marquette University, Herzing University, Concordia University, and Lakeland University.
What Is the Easiest Online College That Is Accredited in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin University-Madison is the easiest online college that is accredited, with a graduation rate of 87 percent. This accredited nonprofit four-year school offers more than 60 distance education programs in fields such as business, computer sciences, education, healthcare, and social sciences.
One of UWM’s easiest programs is its Bachelor of Business Administration. This program has three concentration options in marketing, human resources, and management, and it can be completed in an accelerated format. Moreover, UW–Madison’s distance learning programs offer flexibility and plenty of personalization options.
What Is the Cheapest Accredited Online College in Wisconsin?
The cheapest accredited online college in Wisconsin is UW Whitewater. This school offers some of the most affordable tuition rates for its distance education programs, with undergraduate tuition $7,730 for Wisconsin residents, and $16,602 for non-residents. The tuition for resident and nonresident students enrolled in any graduate online program is $652.00 per credit.
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Are There Free Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin?
No, there are no free accredited online colleges in Wisconsin. However, all of these schools offer plenty of financial aid options for in-person and distance learning students. Some examples include Herzing University, Lakeland University, and Marquette University. At these institutions, 100 percent of the students enrolled receive financial aid.
A great way of learning about available institutional scholarships is to visit the school’s official website. For example, Wisconsin University-Madison displays all its available financial aid options through the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH). Other financial aid options include federal funding, student loans, and work-study jobs.
Why Choose an Accredited Online College in Wisconsin?
You should choose an accredited online college in Wisconsin because they offer a variety of benefits such as flexibility, respectability, and a variety of degree programs to choose from.
Flexibility
Earning a degree online allows you to focus on important aspects of learning with the convenience of tailoring your schedule. This means you’ll be able to learn at any time and place. Flexibility will let you incorporate your studies without disrupting your daily life and is advantageous to those with busy schedules or children.
Respectability
Accredited online colleges in Wisconsin have credibility. Accreditation is a sign that these schools have high academic standards and offer quality education. Furthermore, online degrees are respected as much as traditional on-campus degrees because they offer the same specifications and program requirements.
Variety of Degree Options
Virtual schools in Wisconsin offer numerous undergraduate and graduate degree options. You’ll be able to pursue a degree in practical fields such as nursing or physical therapy through these schools’ distance education programs. You’ll also have access to professional faculty from a variety of different places through online education.
Most Affordable Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin
You can find plenty of affordable accredited online colleges in Wisconsin. In general, schools offer lower tuition rates and fewer fees to online students. Some of the top five most affordable online schools in Wisconsin include Herzing University, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Tuition: $322.07/Credit. This school offers fully online certificates, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees in fields such as finance, communication, education, and computer science. Graduate students enrolled in UW-Whitewater get a lower tuition rate of $652.00 per credit.
- Herzing University | Tuition: $490.00/Credit. Herzing Online offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as nursing, law, and technology. Most of its distance learning programs can be completed in three years or less.
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | Tuition: $593.93/Credit. UWEC Online offers certifications, associate degrees, and master’s degree programs in areas of study such as communication, data science, and business administration.
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Tuition: $623.66/Credit. UWL Online offers two bachelor’s degrees, nine master’s degrees, and a doctorate program. Its Master of Science in School Psychology was designed in accordance with the NASP’s standards.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison | Tuition: $600 – 675/Credit. UW-Madison Online offers seven undergraduate degrees, 19 master’s degrees, and two doctoral degree programs. Online students have a lower tuition rate and don’t have to pay segregated fees.
Best Online Accredited Colleges in Wisconsin That Accept Financial Aid
If you can’t find any affordable accredited colleges in Wisconsin, you can try looking for schools that accept financial aid. Most colleges offer scholarships and grants. You can also find plenty of state and federal grants and loans. Herzing University, Concordia University, and Viterbo University are some schools that offer financial aid.
- Herzing University | Tuition: $490.00/Credit. Herzing Online offers a wide variety of short-term distance education programs. All of its students receive financial aid, with 98 percent/. receiving aid in the form of grants and scholarships, according to NCES.
- Viterbo University | Tuition: $490/Credit. Viterbo University offers three online bachelor’s degree programs, a fully online MBA, and three online graduate certificates. According to NCES, 100 percent of its students receive financial aid.
- Concordia University – Wisconsin | Tuition: $540/Credit. CUW offers fully online graduate and undergraduate programs in fields such as education, psychology, business, and computer science. All of its students are receiving some form of financial aid.
- Lakeland University | Tuition: $541/Credit. One hundred percent of students at LU are receiving financial aid in the form of institutional scholarships and grants while pursuing undergraduate and graduate distance education programs in fields such as psychology, nursing, and accounting.
- Marquette University | Tuition: $600/Credit. This school offers fully online undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business administration, data science, and finance while supporting all students with financial aid options.
Best Online Schools in Wisconsin by Popular Subjects
If you’re looking for the best online schools in Wisconsin for a particular subject, we’ve ranked the most popular subjects like accounting, psychology, education, and criminal law and justice. Below is an in-depth breakdown of each subject and where they are offered.
Best Accredited Online Colleges With Associate Degree Programs in Wisconsin
According to the Bureau of labor statistics, employment for associate degree-holders is projected to grow 11 percent by 2026. Many accredited online colleges in Wisconsin offer associate degree programs, including the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Herzing University, and Southwest Wisconsin Technical College.
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | Associate of Arts and Sciences. This is the only associate degree program offered at UW-Eau Claire. This 60-credit degree is ideal for students that want to transfer to a baccalaureate program. UW-Eau Claire offers plenty of transfer opportunities to its students.
- Herzing University | Associate of Science in Legal Studies. This is one of several associate degrees offered at HU. With this program, students will be prepared for employment in a variety of paralegal positions. HU Online students can earn their associate degree at their own pace in as little as 20 months.
- Concordia University-Wisconsin | Associate of Arts in Business Management. This program aims to prepare students for employment. Students will learn from fundamental approaches in fields such as accounting, finance, and law. CUW is a great option because it offers distance learning students constant tutoring and career guidance.
- Maranatha Baptist University | Associate of Science in Criminal Justice. This associate degree program aims to prepare students for careers in criminal law and justice. Maranatha’s online and distance learning programs are a great alternative for prospective students looking to pursue higher education with more flexibility.
- Southwest Wisconsin Technical College | Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education. This online program aims to prepare students to become instructors that focus on childhood education and development. Students will be prepared to pursue a teaching license in Wisconsin. Moreover, SWTC has numerous post-secondary transfer agreements that allow students to easily transfer to bachelor’s programs.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Accredited Online Colleges With Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Wisconsin
Many entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree. Below you’ll find the best accredited online colleges in Wisconsin with bachelor’s degree programs.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison | Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program was designed in collaboration with partner programs in nursing from six different UW-System schools. Associate degree holders are able to transfer up to 60 credits for this program.
- Marquette University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This program is designed for associate degree transfer students that want to pursue baccalaureate education. Marquette University’s business programs are accredited by the AACSB.
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. Students can choose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. This degree is for students with an associate degree and allows transfer credits.
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | Bachelor of Communication in Corporate and Health Communication. This program was designed in collaboration with experts in the corporate and public communication fields. This program and all distance learning programs at UW-La Crosse have the recognition of the Online Learning Consortium.
- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This distance education accounting bachelor’s degree program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. UW-Whitewater’s online bachelor’s programs are ranked 44th best by the US News & World Report’s online school rankings.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Accredited Online Colleges With Master’s Degree Programs in Wisconsin
Master’s degree programs are great for career advancement and developing new skills and specialized training. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with master’s degrees make an average of $1,545 per week and have a low unemployment rate. You can learn more about the best accredited online colleges in Wisconsin with master’s degree programs below.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison | Master of Engineering in Data Analytics. This master’s degree focuses on core topics such as data analytics, data management, and engineering. UW-Madison offers high-quality distance learning programs and is among the top public schools, according to US News & World Report.
- Marquette University | Master in Business Administration. This online MBA aims to teach students all the skills necessary for high-level corporate positions. Marquette University offers flexible distance learning programs with plenty of flexibility.
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Master of Science in School Psychology. This program aims to prepare students for a variety of positions in the psychology field. The curriculum of this master’s degree program follows the standards of the National Association of School Psychologists.
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Master’s degree students enrolled in this program are prepared to take the ASHA certification. UW-Eau Claire is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, as well as the Higher Learning Commission.
- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Master of Science in Special Education. With this program, students will be qualified to become educators and specialists. UW-Whitewater has been recognized as one of the 50 best regional universities in the midwest by US News & World Report.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Why You Should Attend an Accredited Online College in Wisconsin
You should attend an accredited online college in Wisconsin because they offer a wide range of degree options with affordable tuition rates, and are as respected as traditional in-person schools. Moreover, earning your degree online will allow you to incorporate your studies into your daily life in a way that suits you best.
Accredited Online Colleges in Wisconsin FAQ
Yes, online degrees from accredited colleges in Wisconsin are respected. According to NCES, almost 40 percent of universities offer distance education programs. Because of this, employers consider online degrees to be as credible as traditional on-campus degrees.
Some regionally accredited online colleges in Wisconsin are Marquette University, Viterbo University, Herzing University, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Lakeland University. These schools are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
You can study a variety of topics, such as nursing, education, and computer science, in accredited online colleges in Wisconsin. Additional topics you can study through distance learning programs include psychology, accounting, and criminal law and justice.
Admission requirements for online schools in Wisconsin include completing an online application, paying an application fee, and submitting official academic transcripts. Other requirements include submitting standardized test scores, such as ACT or SAT.
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