Wisconsin, a state of natural beauty and strong industry, offers an ideal setting for your online education. Nestled in the Upper Midwest and bordered by two of the magnificent Great Lakes—Superior and Michigan—the Badger State boasts a stunning coastline, rolling hills, and expansive forests.
With a population of over 5.9 million, Wisconsin’s economy is a dynamic blend of a historical manufacturing legacy and a thriving agricultural sector, famously earning it the title “America’s Dairyland.”
This unique combination of a diverse job market and a strong foundation in education makes it an excellent choice for a future-focused online degree.
This guide is designed to help you navigate your academic journey, from understanding the local economy to securing the financial aid you need to succeed.
In this guideTuition and Fee Overview in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s higher education system is primarily shaped by the University of Wisconsin (UW) System. This public system includes a network of 13 universities and 13 two-year campuses, offering a wide range of programs at a more affordable cost for residents.
Community Colleges & Technical Colleges
Based on 21 associate degree programs,
Lowest tuition: Lakeshore Technical College at $9,000
Highest: Concordia University – Wisconsin $32,000
Average tuition costs at $14,979
Associate degree programs in Wisconsin
Lakeshore Technical College
Cleveland, Wisconsin
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $150 in-state | $225 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,000 - $13,500
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 6
Learn more: Program detailsMadison Area Technical College
Madison, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $153 in-state | $229 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,180 - $13,740
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 18
Learn more: Program detailsSouthwest Wisconsin Technical College
Fennimore, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $153 in-state | $229 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,180 - $13,740
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsNorthcentral Technical College
Wausau, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $153 in-state | $229 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,180 - $14,885
Credits: 60-65
Number of degree programs: 28
Learn more: Program detailsMid-State Technical College
Rapids, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $153 in-state | $229 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,180 - $15,114
Credits: 60-66
Number of degree programs: 8
Learn more: Program detailsWestern Technical College
La Crosse, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $153 in-state | $241 - $303 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,180 - $18,483
Credits: 60-61
Number of degree programs: 4
Learn more: Program detailsMoraine Park Technical College
Fond du Lac, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $153 in-state | $229 - $288 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,180 - $20,160
Credits: 60-70
Number of degree programs: 13
Learn more: Program detailsFox Valley Technical College
Appleton, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $153 in-state | $229 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,333 - $13,969
Credits: 61
Number of degree programs: 28
Learn more: Program detailsNorthwood Technical College
Rice Lake, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $168 in-state | $245 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $10,080 - $17,150
Credits: 60-70
Number of degree programs: 14
Learn more: Program detailsNortheast Wisconsin Technical College
Green Bay, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $171 in-state | $247 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $10,602 - $15,314
Credits: 62
Number of degree programs: 11
Learn more: Program detailsMilwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $178 in-state | $254 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $10,680 - $16,256
Credits: 60-64
Number of degree programs: 17
Learn more: Program detailsGateway Technical College
Kenosha, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $192 in-state | $288 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $11,520 - $19,584
Credits: 60-68
Number of degree programs: 18
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $256 in-state | $575 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $15,360 - $34,500
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Parkside
Kenosha, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $291 in-state | $672 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $17,460 - $40,320
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $320
Total tuition per credit: $19,200
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Superior
Superior, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $330
Total tuition per credit: $19,800
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 3
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $355 in-state | $685 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $21,300 - $41,100
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Platteville
Platteville, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $356
Total tuition per credit: $21,360
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Green Bay, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $413
Total tuition per credit: $24,780
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsHerzing University
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $450 - $925
Total tuition per credit: $27,000 - $55,500
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 11
Learn more: Program detailsConcordia University - Wisconsin
Mequon, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $500
Total tuition per credit: $32,000
Credits: 64
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program details
Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.
The flagship campus, UW-Madison, is a world-renowned research institution, while other campuses and community colleges provide a variety of educational paths, many with robust online learning options.
Public and Private Institutions
Based on 15 online programs,
Highest: Herzing University at $90,600
Lowest: University of Wisconsin – Green Bay at $46,560
Average: $67,757
Bachelor’s degree programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Green Bay, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $388
Total tuition per credit: $46,560
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 16
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Stout
Menomonie, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $325 - $409
Total tuition per credit: $39,000 - $49,080
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 16
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Superior
Superior, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $330 - $450
Total tuition per credit: $39,600 - $54,000
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 13
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $337-$495 in-stae | $350 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $40,440 - $59,400
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 15
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Madison Online
Madison, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $452 - $480
Total tuition per credit: $56,048 - $59,520
Credits: 124
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsConcordia University - Wisconsin
Mequon, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $500
Total tuition per credit: $60,000
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 23
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Platteville
Platteville, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $385 - $525
Total tuition per credit: $46,200 - $63,000
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsViterbo University
La Crosse, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $540
Total tuition per credit: $64,800
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 3
Learn more: Program detailsLakeland University
Plymouth, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $550
Total tuition per credit: $70,400
Credits: 128
Number of degree programs: 15
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Whitewater
Whitewater, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $299 in-state | $636 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $35,800 - $76,320
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 19
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - River Falls
River Falls, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $297 in-state | $649 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $35,640 - $77,880
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Parkside
Kenosha, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $291 in-state | $672 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $34,920 - $80,640
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $307 in-state | $683 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $36,840 - $81,960
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $355 in-state | $685 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $42,600 - $82,200
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsHerzing University
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $450 - $755
Total tuition per credit: $54,000 - $90,600
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 17
Learn more: Program details
Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.
In addition to the public system, Wisconsin has a strong presence of private, nonprofit colleges and universities, such as Marquette University and Carroll University. These institutions often feature smaller class sizes, specialized programs, and unique learning environments.
While tuition is typically higher than at public schools, many private colleges offer generous financial aid packages to make their education more accessible.
Among 19 online master’s degrees researched,
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee costs $66,660 (Highest)
Average tuition costs $35,068
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse offers the lowest at $21,960
Master’s degree programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
La Crosse, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $575 - $732
Total tuition per credit: $17,250 - $21,960
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 11
Learn more: Program detailsLakeland University
Herman, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $700
Total tuition per credit: $21,000 - $25,200
Credits: 30-36
Number of degree programs: 4
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Stout
Menomonie, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $550 - $850
Total tuition per credit: $16,500 - $25,500
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin-Superior
Superior, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $520 - $875
Total tuition per credit: $15,600 - $26,250
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 10
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $560 - 875
Total tuition per credit: $16,800 - $26,250
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 8
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Platteville
Platteville, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $751 - $875
Total tuition per credit: $22,530 - $26,250
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 10
Learn more: Program detailsConcordia University - Wisconsin
Mequon, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $690 - $940
Total tuition per credit: $20,700 - $28,200
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 31
Learn more: Program detailsViterbo University
La Crosse, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $455 - $800
Total tuition per credit: $15,470 - $29,600
Credits: 34-37
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsHerzing University
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $630 - $770
Total tuition per credit: $18,900 - $30,030
Credits: 30-39
Number of degree programs: 27
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin-River Falls
River Falls, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $481-$784 in-state | $545 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $14,430 - $30,990
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 5
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Parkside
Somers, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $494 in-state | $1,084 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $14,820 - $32,520
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsEdgewood University
Madison, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $500 - $1,092
Total tuition per credit: $15,000 - $32,760
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 5
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $558 in-state | $1,107 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $16,740 - $33,210
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 3
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Green Bay, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $569 in-state | $1,124 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $17,070 - $40,464
Credits: 30-36
Number of degree programs: 8
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Whitewater
Whitewater, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $586-$648 in-state | $1,200 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $17,580 - $44,136
Credits: 30-36
Number of degree programs: 17
Learn more: Program detailsMarquette University
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $500 - $1,408
Total tuition per credit: $15,000 - $46,464
Credits: 30-33
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsMedical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,078 - $1,156
Total tuition per credit: $45,256 - $48,552
Credits: 42
Number of degree programs: 4
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin - Madison Online
Madison, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $822 in-state | $1,710 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $24,660 - $51,300
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 17
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WisconsinDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $525-$933 in-state | $760 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $15,750 - $66,660
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 19
Learn more: Program details
Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.
Notable Statewide Initiatives in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Grant & Talent Incentive Program (TIP) Grant : Need-based financial aid for in-state students attending UW campuses, technical colleges, and tribally controlled institutions; renewable for up to 10 semesters.
- Academic Excellence Scholarship (AES): Merit-based award of $2,250/year for top-performing Wisconsin high school graduates enrolled full-time at participating public institutions (up to eight semesters).
- UW PK–20 Partnerships: Aligns K‑12 and higher education systems to expand dual credit and early college programs, smoothing the transition to postsecondary education.
- WIDA Consortium: Originating in Wisconsin, it provides English proficiency standards and assessments (like ACCESS for ELLs) and supports educators nationwide.
- Wisconsin Statewide Parent‑Educator Initiative (WSPEI): Promotes collaboration between families and educators, particularly for students with disabilities, offering training and support resources statewide.
- Transition Improvement Grant (TIG): Aims to improve graduation rates and post-school outcomes for students with IEPs and reduce educational disparities.
- Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin: Encourages sustainable, wellness-focused K–12 environments; schools may earn recognition for achievements in environmental literacy and health.
- Wisconsin Idea & Civic Education Programs: Reflecting the state’s public service ethos, these initiatives support civic learning and teacher development in democratic education across the state.
- Career Pathways & Workforce Alignment: Connects community colleges, adult education, and employers to create training aligned with in-demand sectors—e.g., healthcare, IT, and manufacturing.
- Expansion of Technical & Vocational Education: State-led efforts to revitalize vocational programs in high schools and colleges—boosting skilled trade and technical certifications in construction, manufacturing, and more.
Cost of Attendance Beyond Tuition
One of the greatest benefits of an online degree is the ability to bypass the high cost of on-campus living. However, it’s still important to budget for other expenses.
- Room & Board: The cost of living in Wisconsin varies significantly. Metropolitan areas like Madison and Milwaukee have higher housing costs, while rural areas offer much more affordable options. Online students can save substantially by avoiding the urban housing market.
- Books & Supplies: While this can vary by program, a typical student should budget for books and supplies, which can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per year.
- Transportation: Intra-state travel in Wisconsin is mainly by car, and costs will depend on your circumstances. Online students may need to budget for occasional travel for on-campus meetings or professional networking.
- Pell Grant Eligibility: Your eligibility for a Federal Pell Grant is based on your financial need as determined by the FAFSA. While the cost of living isn’t directly factored into the need-based calculation, it’s important to complete your FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your potential aid.
State-Funded Grants & Scholarships
Wisconsin offers a number of state-funded grants and scholarships to help students pay for their education. Many of these are available to both public and private college students.
- FAFSA: The first step to receiving any state or federal aid is to complete the FAFSA. The priority deadline for most institutions is typically in early spring for the upcoming academic year.
- Academic Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship provides funds for high-achieving Wisconsin students. The scholarship is co-funded by the state and participating institutions, and it requires full-time enrollment.
- Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board (HEAB): This board is a great resource for information on a variety of state-funded programs, including the Wisconsin Grant, which provides need-based aid to undergraduate students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Online students are eligible for the same federal and state financial aid as on-campus students. Start by completing the FAFSA, ideally by the priority deadline in early spring. You may qualify for the Wisconsin Grant, Talent Incentive Program (TIP), or scholarships like the Academic Excellence Scholarship.
Online students save significantly by avoiding campus housing costs. However, it’s important to budget for books, supplies (around $500–$1,200/year), and occasional transportation if programs require on-campus visits. Living costs are generally lower in rural areas than in metro areas like Madison or Milwaukee.
Yes. Programs like the Wisconsin Statewide Parent-Educator Initiative (WSPEI) and the Transition Improvement Grant (TIG) provide resources and support to students with disabilities and their families, ensuring equitable access to education throughout Wisconsin.
Through initiatives like Career Pathways & Workforce Alignment and the expansion of technical education, Wisconsin’s colleges collaborate with employers to offer job-ready programs. Fields like IT, clean energy, and skilled trades benefit from these workforce-driven online degrees.
Begin by selecting a UW or technical college that offers your desired online degree. Then complete your FAFSA to qualify for financial aid. Explore scholarships through your school’s financial aid office and the Wisconsin HEAB. It’s helpful to apply early—ideally in the fall before the academic year you plan to start.