Wisconsin’s economy makes it an excellent place to get your post-secondary education and build a lucrative career. In this article, we list the best computer science schools in Wisconsin to help set you on the right track, get your education, and break into the tech industry.
There are many computer science schools in Wisconsin, but knowing which schools are the best for your desired subject can be challenging. Continue reading to find Wisconsin computer science school rankings, tuition costs, program options, and the basic educational requirements for each of these top-tier institutions.
How to Choose a Good Computer Science School in Wisconsin
To choose the best computer science school in Wisconsin, you should consider the school’s curriculum, accreditation, whether the program is online or in-person, and whether internship opportunities are available for students.
Cost
The cost of tuition varies based on the university. The US News & World Report for 2021 to 2022 notes that in-state tuition for public universities is lower, with tuition averaging $10,338 per year. In comparison, private universities charge $38,185.
It’s important to note that the cost can be covered by financial aid, depending on your eligibility. Financial aid comes in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Ensure you submit your FAFSA and apply for any scholarships you think you’re eligible for.
Research Opportunities
To better match your interests and prepare for a career, choose a school that offers extensive research possibilities. For students in computer science subjects like artificial intelligence, graphics, theory, databases, and networks, it is important to look into the computer lab facilities and the availability of current equipment and technology at the institution.
Employment Opportunities
Look into the school’s career center to see what opportunities there are for students. Find out if they host job fairs, on-campus interviews, and counselors to provide student support. Resources such as one-to-one meetings, internships, and connecting with alumni are also helpful in determining your employment opportunities.
Flexibility
Find out if your chosen school has flexible learning options. Online or hybrid learning formats are useful for those with busy schedules. Online learning platforms should also be available to ensure you have access to course content anywhere at any time.
Wisconsin Computer Science School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Computer Science Programs in Wisconsin?
| Computer Science School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Dual Degree in Computer Science and Master of Software Engineering | #7 |
| University of Wisconsin- Madison |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #17 |
| Carroll University | BS in Computer Science and Master of Software Engineering | BS in Computer Science and Master of Software Engineering | #22 |
| University of Wisconsin- Whitewater | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | N/A | #49 |
| Lakeland University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | N/A | #54 |
| University of Wisconsin-Stout | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | MS Information and Communication Technologies | #69 |
| University of Wisconsin- Platteville | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science Plus Business | N/A | #82 |
| University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master in Science in Computer Science | #135 |
| Marquette University | 5-year BS in Computer Science/MS in Computing Program | Master of Science in Computing | #146 |
| Concordia University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Master of Science in Computer Science | #258 |
Wisconsin Computer Science Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin
To rank the best computer science schools in Wisconsin, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science programs as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin Explained
The best computer science schools in Wisconsin offer computer science on both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Below is a list of 10 of the best that have great financial aid options and high graduation rates. In addition, they’re accredited by the appropriate authorities and have a well-optimized student-to-faculty ratio.
Best Undergraduate Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin
The best undergraduate computer science schools in Wisconsin are schools within the University of Wisconsin System. They are public universities, not very expensive, have great graduate and acceptance rates, considerable financial aid, and interactive systems of learning both in person and online.
Best Computer Science Associate Degree Schools in Wisconsin
- Northcentral Technical College | Software Developer-Associate Degree. This degree takes two years to complete and is offered completely online. Students learn to use a wide range of popular programming languages and how to develop software for businesses.
- Lakeshore Technical College | IT-Web & Software Developer. Students in this program get the embedded pathway certificate in IT-Service Center Technician. They can help computer users with their software and hardware needs.
- Milwaukee Area Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Simulation and Gaming. This interdisciplinary program simulates a real-world workplace while teaching students about product conception, development, design, and testing. You’ll learn about the newest technologies, object-oriented principles, and programming languages.
- Milwaukee Area Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Simulation and Gaming. By participating in this program, you prepare for highly sought-after certifications in the business world. These certifications include Microsoft Enterprise Desktop Support Technician (MCITP), Microsoft Certified Professional in Windows Desktop, and Apple OSX Certified Support Professional (ACSP).
- Southern New Hampshire University | Associate Degree in Computer Science. Students learn about the software development life cycle, operating platforms, and systems analysis and design in this program. As well, you’ll focus on programming languages, data structures, and algorithms. The program can be self-paced and online.
Best Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Wisconsin
- Beloit College | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. A computer science major and minor are available at Beloit College’s Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science programs. Students pursuing a BS degree must finish at least four units in natural science courses. Students taking computer science as a minor require six units of computer science courses.
- Cardinal Stritch University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Students can take computer science as a minor or bachelor’s degree at Cardinal Stritch University. Students must finish 34 credits in computer science and related courses and complete an internship. Only 22 credits are required for this minor.
- Carroll University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree can concentrate their studies in information systems or software engineering. Students who successfully complete an internship can earn up to 12 credit hours toward graduation.
- Concordia University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Students majoring in computer science must choose a minor in another subject in order to graduate. The coursework for the degree must total 129 credits, with 42 of those credits devoted to computer science.
- Saint Norbert College | Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. Students majoring in computer science must take courses in machine organization, assembly language, computer programming, data and file structures, software engineering, and discrete structures.
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Best Graduate Schools for Computer Science in Wisconsin
The best graduate computer science schools in Wisconsin dominate the national rankings for the best universities to attend. Many of these universities are public, and a substantial number of them provide online programs for students with full-time jobs seeking to take their careers to the next level.
Best Schools for Master’s in Computer Science in Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin-Madison | Master of Science in Computer Science. The MS in Computer Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison helps students innovate and advance their careers. This full-time postgraduate program mixes theory and practice to prepare its pupils for career success.
- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS). The Master of Science in Computer Science degree program at UW-Whitewater requires students to complete 30 credits of coursework and typically takes 16 months to complete.
- University of Wisconsin-Parkside | Master of Science in Computer and Information Systems. With the computer and information systems curriculum for this program, both newcomers and seasoned professionals in the information systems industry can excel and grow in their careers.
- Concordia University | Master of Science in Computer Science. Concordia University’s online Master’s in Computer Science program has two specializations in computer information systems and software engineering. Both of these paths build on your prior knowledge and skills in computer science and enhance your overall understanding of the field.
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Master of Science in Computer Science. Students enrolled in University of Wisconsin-Madison’s computer science department on the normal track have the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to pursue a doctoral degree in computer science research.
Best PhD in Computer Science Universities in Wisconsin
- Marquette University | Ph.D. in Computer Science. Graduates of Marquette University’s computer science PhD program are well-suited for positions in academia, industry, government research labs, and other educational settings.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison | Computer Sciences, Ph.D. Computational biology, artificial intelligence, computer architecture, computer networks, and computer graphics are all subfields of research that students can specialize in for this doctoral program.
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Admission Requirements for Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin
The basic admission requirements for computer science schools in Wisconsin are different for undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduate students require just a high school diploma, SAT and ACT scores, and transcripts. Graduate applicants require undergraduate transcripts, proof of completion for a prior related degree, and GRE results in some situations.
Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- High school transcripts
- Prior enrollment in basic STEM courses
- Extra-curricular activities and special talents
- SAT and ACT scores
Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin: Graduate Admission Requirements
- 3.0 GPA in an undergraduate degree
- Transcripts from an undergraduate degree program in a related degree
- GRE or GMAT scores for some universities
- Strong background in computer science
- Programming experience or work experience
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Computer Science in Wisconsin?
No, it is not hard to get into a school for computer science in Wisconsin. The acceptance rates are pretty accommodating for public universities and private institutions tend to have relaxed admission processes and requirements.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Wisconsin for Computer Science
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Acceptance Rate: 97%. The state of Wisconsin operates this university and is a part of the University of Wisconsin System. It adheres to the accepted standard in terms of admissions requirements whilst mostly serving residents of Wisconsin. High school diplomas and average SAT scores are used for undergraduate admission.
- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Acceptance Rate: 94%. The admission process looks for examples of leadership, community service, innovation, and other academic and nonacademic credentials. Students planning to attend classes on-campus must submit official high school transcripts and ACT and SAT results to the university.
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Acceptance Rate: 82%. In order to be considered for admission, prospective first-year students need to submit their transcripts, test scores, and two essays which will be graded.
- University of Wisconsin-Platteville | Acceptance Rate: 85%. This is a state-owned university under the University of Wisconsin System. It has standard requirements for admission and caters mainly to Wisconsin residents.
- Concordia University-Wisconsin | Acceptance Rate: 71%. When considering an applicant, Concordia University-Wisconsin takes admission SAT and ACT scores into account. However, these scores are not required.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Computer Science in Wisconsin
The best online schools for computer science in Wisconsin not only have excellent remote programs for computer science students, but also high graduation rates. The graduation rates listed in the table below are sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Computer Science Program |
|---|---|---|
| Beloit College | 83% | Bachelor’s in Computer Science |
| Concordia University | 53% | Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science |
| Edgewood College | 64% | Bachelor’s in Computer and Information Sciences |
| Marquette University | 81% | Master’s Degree in Computer Science |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | 87% | Bachelor’s in Computer and Information Sciences |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Computer Science in Wisconsin
The most affordable colleges for computer science in Wisconsin are the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Since the University of Wisconsin (UW) System dominates the affordable Wisconsin college market, it also dominates our list of the most affordable colleges.
If you are seeking financial aid, these schools are perfect for you, as they are supported by both scholarship and grant financial aid. As well, the cost of living is cheaper than the national average so living here is that much cheaper. According to figures listed on Best Places, Wisconsin has an overall score of 90.9, meaning it is cheaper than the average for the US.
How to Attend the Top Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin With Financial Aid
Funding your education can be the deciding factor between attending and not attending postsecondary school, which is why financial aid is offered to eligible students to alleviate the burden. Loans and grants may be provided via government organizations, but there are many privately funded scholarships that provide the same or better funding.
The section below details national and state scholarships Wisconsin students can apply for. Scholarships are awarded to both private and public institutions. Your eligibility may be determined by academic history, the topic of study, family background, and financial need.
Best Computer Science Scholarships for Wisconsin Students
- The Kohler Foundation Scholarship | Amount: $100.000. The Kohler Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to art preservation and performing arts. The foundation gives out two scholarships each year, with a total grant of $100,000 spread out over four years. The Herbert V. Kohler Scholarship and Ruth DeYoung Kohler Scholarship are given to students with leadership and creative aptitude, respectively.
- The WRA Education Foundation Scholarship | Amount: $2,250. This grant is for students enrolled in Wisconsin culinary or hospitality schools. Applicants must be enrolled in a program focused on the restaurant and hospitality sectors for at least six credit hours to be eligible. Courses in hospitality management, culinary arts, and food science are appropriate. Wisconsin citizens are granted 35 scholarships each year.
- The Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundations | Amount: $3,000. The Wisconsin Bleeding Disorders Foundation provides scholarships to people in Wisconsin who suffer from bleeding disorders. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a 500 to 750-word essay detailing their educational ambitions and a summary of the difficulties they face as a result of their disease.
- The Roma Lodge Merit Scholarship| Amount: $4,000. Each year, the Roma Lodge provides four scholarships to children of lodge members. Applicants must be high school seniors accepted into a full-time college program. High school records, SAT or ACT scores, and two professional letters of recommendation are required.
- The Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship | Amount: $9,000. This scholarship is awarded to students with the best GPA in Wisconsin private or public schools. Each high school in Wisconsin selects one student, but they must be enrolled and accepted into a Wisconsin post-secondary school to be eligible.
Wisconsin Employment Outlook for Computer Science
The Wisconsin employment outlook shows positive growth, with there being over three million employed people in the state, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. After seeing a significant spike in unemployment in 2020 which is likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a steady increase of employed people in the Wisconsin labor market.
According to the Job Center of Wisconsin WisConomy, the annual wage ranging between the 10th percentile and 90th percentile is $23,390 to $94,850 respectively. The wage you receive depends on your education level and experience. For example, the average experienced wage in Wisconsin is $31.91 per hour.
Highest-Paying Computer Science Careers in Wisconsin
| Computer Science Job | Computer Science Degree | Average Salary in Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| Database Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $105,890 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | Master’s degree | $103,570 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $96,330 |
| Computer Programmer | Bachelor’s degree | $95,370 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $93,860 |
Best Computer Science Jobs in Wisconsin Explained
The best computer science jobs in Wisconsin are listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They’re some of the highest-paid professions in the state with a great job outlook and a promising number of jobs.
Does It Matter What Computer Science School in Wisconsin I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what computer science school in Wisconsin you go to. Some schools have higher computer science program rankings but you also need to find a school that fits your wants and needs. The course content for your desired program should teach things you’re interested in that help you advance your career. The program should also fit within your financial capabilities.
Additionally, you should look into both acceptance rates and graduation rates. This determines how likely you are to get admitted into your desired program, and how likely you are to successfully complete it. Review the minor specializations that can broaden your skills and help you further your education via a graduate degree.
Additional Reading About Computer Science
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Best Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin FAQ
Yes, there are strong computer science programs in Wisconsin. The schools under the University of Wisconsin system are great options for computer science programs, with excellent syllabi and interesting specialization tracks.
Computer science is fascinating because it is a multifaceted field that encompasses software development, computer and information systems management, computer programming, and web development. All of these job roles are necessary for the age of the Internet, as they are what make the Internet, computer technology, and websites function as they should.
The advantages of studying computer science include a high-paying career with an average salary of $131,490 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Additionally, BLS states that computer and information technology occupations have a projected job outlook of 13 percent between 2020 and 2030, which is much faster than average. This indicates the increasing demand for computer science professionals, so there are plenty of jobs available.
Computer science is primarily concerned with resolving software-related problems. As a student, you can expect to master a wide range of programming languages, operating systems, and database management. Other than that, it’s all about solving issues and creating hardware and software interfaces in computer engineering.
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