2026 Best Nursing Schools in Milwaukee

Rankings help prospective nursing students compare programs objectively and make informed decisions about their education. Registerednursing.org is creating the "Best Nursing Schools in Milwaukee" rankings, focusing exclusively on NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion. This data-driven approach ensures transparency and reliability for students evaluating their options. For detailed methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Top Performing Schools in Milwaukee

These schools demonstrate the highest average NCLEX pass rates across all available years, with a minimum of 20 total students in the dataset.

  • Waukesha County Technical College: 98.16% average pass rate (56 students)
  • Concordia University-Wisconsin: 96.46% average pass rate (60 students)
  • Carroll University: 96.28% average pass rate (136 students)

BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison

This analysis compares average pass rates by program type across Milwaukee nursing schools.

  • BSN Programs: 96.05% average pass rate (228 students)
  • ADN Programs: 94.12% average pass rate (68 students)
  • MSN Programs: 100% average pass rate (17 students)

Pass Rate by Program Size

Programs are categorized by student volume to identify performance patterns across different scales.

  • Large Programs (>100 students/year): 98.09% average pass rate (105 students)
  • Medium Programs (50-100 students/year): 95.51% average pass rate (178 students)
  • Small Programs (<50 students/year): 90% average pass rate (30 students)

Consistently High Performing Schools

These Milwaukee nursing schools maintain exceptional pass rates over multiple years, with averages exceeding 90%.

  • Waukesha County Technical College: 98.16% average pass rate over 2 years (56 students)
  • Concordia University-Wisconsin: 96.46% average pass rate over 2 years (60 students)
  • Carroll University: 96.28% average pass rate over 2 years (136 students)
  • Herzing University-Brookfield: 92.12% average pass rate over 2 years (65 students)
#1

Wisconsin Lutheran College

Milwaukee, WI - Private 4-year - wlc.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Wisconsin Lutheran College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program provides comprehensive preparation for nursing careers with a Christian servant leadership focus. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences at top Milwaukee hospitals like Froedtert Hospital and Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, supported by state-of-the-art simulation labs. Students develop holistic patient care skills through evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. The program requires ACT or SAT scores for admission and maintains a 100% NCLEX pass rate. Graduates benefit from small class sizes, cultural health clinical options, and high employment rates, with CCNE accreditation ensuring quality education.

  • Direct admission for freshmen.
  • State-of-the-art nursing lab.
  • Diverse clinical experiences.
  • Christian servant leadership focus.
  • Cultural health clinical option.
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
  • High employment rate post-graduation.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Small class sizes.
  • Hands-on patient care training.
#2

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI - Private 4-year - msoe.edu

Bachelor's - B.S. in Nursing - Traditional Track

Campus Based - Visit Website

Milwaukee School of Engineering's B.S. in Nursing - Traditional Track is designed for first-time college students seeking a comprehensive nursing education. This full-time campus program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences, technology integration, and practical learning to develop essential nursing skills. Accredited by CCNE, it meets licensure requirements in most states and offers guaranteed progression for students meeting academic criteria. For admission, ACT or SAT scores are required. The program demonstrates strong outcomes with a 98.53% NCLEX pass rate in 2024, reflecting effective preparation for the licensing exam and healthcare careers.

  • Full-time curriculum
  • Hands-on clinical experiences
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Meets most state licensure requirements
  • Focus on teamwork and communication
  • Practical learning emphasis
  • Guaranteed progression for eligible students
  • Designed for first-time college students
  • Technology-rich learning environment
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare roles

Bachelor's - B.S. in Nursing - Accelerated Second-Degree Track

Campus Based - Visit Website

The B.S. in Nursing - Accelerated Second-Degree Track at Milwaukee School of Engineering provides an intensive 16-month pathway for career changers with existing bachelor's degrees. This campus-based program features extensive clinical hours, simulation experiences, and two annual admission periods. Accredited and meeting most state licensure requirements, it boasts a perfect 100% NCLEX pass rate mentioned in program materials. While entrance exam requirements aren't specified, the program's accelerated format and high employment rates make it an efficient option for transitioning into nursing with demonstrated exam success.

  • 16-month program length
  • Two admission periods yearly
  • Extensive clinical hours
  • Simulation experiences included
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate
  • Full accreditation
  • Meets licensure in most states
  • Designed for career changers
  • Campus-based program
  • High employment rate post-graduation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Waukesha County Technical College

Pewaukee, WI - Public 2-Year - wctc.edu

Associate - Nursing - Associate Degree

Campus Based - Visit Website

Waukesha County Technical College's campus-based Nursing Associate Degree program prepares students for RN licensure through a 65-credit curriculum combining science and hands-on clinical practice. The program requires the ATI TEAS entrance exam and a minimum 2.60 high school GPA. Students gain practical experience in high-tech labs and can work as LPNs after the fourth term. The program maintains strong NCLEX performance, with a 98.18% pass rate in 2024. ACEN accreditation ensures quality education, and the program includes full-time 8-week courses with requirements for health screenings, background checks, and BLS certification.

  • 65-credit Associate Degree.
  • Prepares for NCLEX exam.
  • Campus-based, full-time.
  • 8-week courses.
  • Hands-on high-tech labs.
  • Work as LPN after fourth term.
  • Accredited by ACEN.
  • Requires high school GPA 2.60.
  • ATI TEAS exam required.
  • Health requirements must be met.
#4

Concordia University-Wisconsin

Mequon, WI - Private 4-year - cuw.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Concordia University Wisconsin's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for nursing careers through a Christ-centered education that integrates liberal arts with rigorous clinical training. This campus-based program requires 121 credits and features a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio for personalized attention. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA, specific science courses, and does not require ACT or SAT exams. The program guarantees direct admission into nursing courses without waitlists. NCLEX pass rates have improved from 87.32% in 2022 to 96.61% in 2024. Accredited by CCNE, the program includes early clinical experiences starting sophomore year and emphasizes interprofessional communication and leadership development.

  • 121 credits required.
  • 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
  • Average financial aid award $23,395.
  • Direct admission into nursing major.
  • No waitlist for admissions.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Christ-centered education.
  • Guaranteed spot in nursing courses.
  • Minimum GPA 2.75 for admission.
  • Specific science courses required.
#5

Carroll University

Waukesha, WI - Private 4-year - carrollu.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Carroll University's Associate Degree in Nursing program is a two-year pathway focused on culturally-competent care to address healthcare disparities. It features modern nursing labs and clinical practicum experiences, with admission requiring a 2.5 GPA and preference for bilingual applicants. No entrance exam is specified. The 2024 NCLEX pass rate for ADN graduates was 76.92%, and the program supports further education through an RN-MSN pathway, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and professional nursing roles.

  • Two-year program duration.
  • Culturally-competent care focus.
  • Modern nursing lab facilities.
  • Clinical practicum experiences included.
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • 2.5 GPA requirement.
  • Bilingual applicants preferred.
  • RN-MSN pathway available.
  • Holistic admission process.
  • Dedicated student support.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Carroll University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program integrates simulation-based education and clinical placements starting in the first year, preparing students for diverse healthcare settings. The program emphasizes hands-on learning with state-of-the-art facilities and cross-cultural experiences. For admission, ACT or SAT scores are required. The 2024 NCLEX pass rate for BSN graduates was 98.09%, reflecting the program's rigorous curriculum and supportive environment that enables students to specialize in areas like pediatric or intensive care during their capstone experience.

  • 100% NCLEX pass rate 2023.
  • Hands-on clinical placements.
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
  • Cross-cultural experience opportunities.
  • Specializations in various care areas.
  • Supportive faculty and peer relationships.
  • Rigorous curriculum with academic support.
  • Early nursing courses from first year.
  • Capstone experience with 120 hours.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Data reference: IPEDS 2024, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.

Entry Level ADN, BSN, & MSN Programs in Milwaukee, WI

The career outlook for registered nurses is particularly bright, with job opportunities expected to grow by 15 percent over the next several years according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are a number of entry-level training programs that prepare students to take the NCLEX RN licensing exam and start their careers as RNs. In the Milwaukee area, program options include Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs and direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs, as well as LPN to RN programs designed for licensed practical nurses who want to transition from practical nursing into an RN’s role.

LPN to RN Programs

If you are a licensed practical nurse and would like to become a registered nurse LPN to RN “bridge” programs are designed to help you become an RN more quickly by giving advanced placement credit for past LPN work experience. The LPN to RN program at Milwaukee Area Technical College allows LPNs to earn their Associate’s Degree in Nursing and prepares them to take the NCLEX exam and become licensed RNs.

ADN Programs

ADN programs are one of the most popular routes for becoming an RN. Offered at many community colleges and vocational schools, ADN programs include coursework in anatomy and physiology, patient care fundamentals, health and safety and are generally completed in around two years of study.  Waukesha County Technical College offers one of the top ADN programs as ranked by RegisteredNursing.org and students can take the program on a full-time or part-time basis.

Direct-Entry BSN Programs

BSN programs are becoming more popular choices for entering the nursing field, as BSN-educated nurses generally earn higher salaries and have more job opportunities than nurses with an associate’s degree. The University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee offers a traditional BSN program that includes coursework in clinical nutrition, genetics, cultural diversity in healthcare, pathophysiology and pharmacology, and evidenced-based nursing practice.

Find out more about Wisconsin Accelerated BSN Programs

Direct-Entry MSN Programs

Another, less-common route to becoming an RN for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing subject is a direct-entry MSN program. These programs are ideal for students who want to transition careers into nursing and would like to earn an advanced degree. The direct-entry MSN program at Marquette University is a 19-21 month accelerated program that prepares students for careers as nurses through a blend of online coursework, hands-on laboratory simulations, and clinical experience opportunities.

Find out more about Wisconsin Accelerated MSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Milwaukee, WI

Many nurses who hold an ADN and a valid RN license decide to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing in order to pursue new job opportunities and advance their careers. Many schools offer specialized RN to BSN or RN to MSN “bridge” programs that provide an accelerated pathway to this higher degree.

RN to BSN Programs

RN to BSN bridge programs are designed to help ADN-educated nurses earn their BSN. Some schools offer these programs in an online format, which provides additional flexibility and convenience to working students. One example of a school that offers RN to BSN programs is Cardinal Stritch University, which offers classes in online, six-week courses that allow students to earn their BSN in as little as 16 months.

Find out more about Wisconsin RN to BSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs

Some schools offer RN to MSN programs that allow nurses with their ADN the opportunity to go straight to master’s-level study of nursing after completing a set amount of bachelor’s-level courses. The RN to MSN program at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee prepares students to be certified as clinical nurse leaders following graduation.

Find out more about Wisconsin RN to MSN Programs

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

If you're a registered nurse looking to advance your career, RN to BSN and MSN programs offer flexible paths to higher education. Many schools provide online or hybrid options that fit busy schedules. The table below lists schools with their locations, program highlights, and direct links to program pages. You can easily compare details like accreditation, clinical requirements, and support services. Explore these opportunities to find a program that matches your goals and helps you grow professionally. For more information, visit each school's page.

Milwaukee, WI

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online and flexible program
    • 2.5 minimum GPA required
    • Up to 60 transfer credits
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Capstone quality improvement project
    • Competency-based assessment option
    • Comprehensive 120-credit curriculum
    • Advanced nursing course focus
*Federal data: IPEDS 2024, administered by the National Center for Education Statistics.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Milwaukee, WI

Advanced practice nursing programs prepare nurses who have their BSN for careers as clinical nurse leaders, nurse practitioners, nurse educators, administrators among other leadership positions in nursing. For nurses in Milwaukee, area schools offer traditional MSN programs, post-graduate certificate programs and doctoral programs in nursing.

MSN Programs

Traditional MSN programs are offered to experienced nurses with their BSN who want to become nurse practitioners, administrators, educators or clinical nurse leaders. Programs may be offered in online or on-campus formats, and usually allow students to choose a professional focus for their studies. For example, Marquette University’s traditional MSN program offers the following specializations: adult/gerontology acute care or primary care nurse practitioner, pediatric acute or primary care nurse practitioner, clinical nurse leader or nurse midwifery.

Find out more about Wisconsin Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Post-graduate certificate programs offer nurses with their MSN an opportunity to learn and become certified in a new specialty. These programs are ideal for nurses who want to transition to a new field of nursing and do not want to repeat master’s-level coursework. For example, the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee offers a post-master’s certificate program in the family nurse practitioner role that can be completed in 12 months of study.

Find out more about Wisconsin Post-Master's Certificate Programs 

DNP & Ph.D. Programs

Doctoral programs in nursing, such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), are designed for nurses who want to advance to the highest levels of leadership in their healthcare organizations. DNP programs prepare nurses for careers in advanced practice such as independent nurse practitioners, while Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs prepare nurses for careers in nursing research or academia. UW-Milwaukee offers a plethora of doctoral nursing degree options, including both DNP and Ph.D. pathways.

Find out more about Wisconsin DNP Programs

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Milwaukee

Milwaukee offers several APRN programs for nurses seeking advanced degrees like MSN, DNP, or NP. These programs help you specialize and advance your nursing career. The table below lists schools in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with program highlights and links to their program pages. Explore options to find the right fit for your goals. For details, visit each school's website using the provided links.
Jump to City:

Brookfield, WI

Ottawa University-Milwaukee

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Accelerated MSN degree.
    • CCNE accredited nursing program.
    • Nurse Educator concentration available.
    • Requires current RN license.
    • 36 credit hours total.
    • Core courses: 18 credit hours.
    • Specialization: 18 credit hours.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nurse Leadership concentration.
    • CCNE accredited.
    • Accelerated RN-MSN bridge.
    • 36 credit hours.
    • Requires current RN license.
    • Two specialization tracks.
    • Core courses in advanced nursing.

Mequon, WI

Concordia University-Wisconsin

  • BSN to MSN - MSN Healthcare Informatics

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Focus on healthcare informatics.
    • Analyze treatment outcomes.
    • Study policies and finances.
    • Advocate for data privacy.
    • Improve patient care.
    • Use data for decisions.
    • Enhance health outcomes.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 41-credit online MSN program
    • Minimum 750 clinical hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • BSN required for admission
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
    • Specialization in Adult Gerontology
    • Christian principles guided
    • No GRE required
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 41-credit online MSN program
    • 750 clinical hours required
    • Two admission cycles annually
    • Fall deadline: July 1
    • Spring deadline: November 1
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • No GRE exam needed
    • Christian principles integrated
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 41-credit online MSN program
    • Minimum 750 clinical hours
    • BSN degree required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
    • Two years nursing experience preferred
    • Fall admission deadline: July 1
    • Spring admission deadline: November 1
    • No GRE required
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online post-master's program
    • 30-credit curriculum
    • No GRE required
    • Cohort-based learning model
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Christian foundation
    • Advanced practice focus
    • Leadership development curriculum
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online BSN to DNP program
    • 70 total credit hours
    • 1,008 practicum hours
    • $870 per credit cost
    • 3-4 year completion time
    • No GRE required
    • 3.0 minimum GPA
    • CCNE accredited program
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program
    • 70 total credit hours
    • 1,008 clinical practice hours
    • Three to four year completion
    • $870 per credit cost
    • No GRE required
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Post-BSN to DNP - Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible asynchronous learning
    • 720 clinical practitioner hours
    • 3 or 5-year program tracks
    • No GMAT/GRE required
    • 98% certification board pass rate
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Two specialization options
    • Leadership development focus

Milwaukee, WI

Alverno College

  • BSN to MSN - Clinical Nurse Specialist

    Concentration: Adult Gero - Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced practice nursing leadership
    • Evidence-based care focus
    • Comprehensive patient care approach
    • Multiple clinical practica
    • Pharmacological intervention training
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 39-credit FNP specialty track
    • 600 clinical practice hours
    • Flexible online/hybrid format
    • $1,000 per credit hour
    • CCNE accredited program
    • 5-7 semester program length
    • BSN degree required
    • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • BSN to MSN - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 45 total credit program
    • Online with on-campus clinical components
    • Requires 2 years NICU experience
    • Prepares for board certification
    • Advanced practice nursing curriculum
    • Focuses on neonatal critical care
    • Web-based learning platform
    • Case studies and problem-based learning
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Direct Care - Online Learning - Website

    • 18-month post-master's program
    • Full or part-time enrollment
    • Flexible semester/block learning
    • CCNE Accredited program
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • Complex clinical preparation
    • Healthcare policy development
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Educational Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online DNP program
    • 18-month completion time
    • Two program tracks available
    • Asynchronous course format
    • Free application process
    • 1,000 clinical practicum hours
    • Small student-faculty ratios
    • Customizable educational paths
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online DNP program
    • 18-month completion time
    • Two specialized tracks
    • Flexible course scheduling
    • Small class sizes
    • Advanced leadership focus
    • No application fee
    • Open to licensed RNs
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online DNP program
    • 18-month completion time
    • Two track options
    • Flexible 8 or 16-week courses
    • Free application process
    • Leadership and clinical focus
    • 1,000 clinical practicum hours
    • Start terms: Fall, Spring, Summer

Marquette University

  • BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced practice nursing specialization
    • Care for patients 13 and older
    • Health promotion focus
    • Clinical assessment skills
    • Comprehensive patient management
  • BSN to MSN - Advanced Practice Nursing: Nurse-Midwifery

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online and campus program.
    • 49 credit hours required.
    • Tuition $1,400 per credit.
    • BSN and 3.0 GPA needed.
    • Unencumbered RN license required.
    • Accredited by ACME until 2029.
    • Eligible for AMCB certification exam.
    • Clinical placements in Wisconsin.
  • BSN to MSN - Dual Pediatric Primary Care and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • 250 hours clinical residency
    • 1000 total clinical hours
    • Multiple degree tracks
    • $1,400 per credit tuition
    • Two years pediatric RN experience required
    • High-fidelity simulation labs
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Health Systems Leadership
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Advanced pediatric clinical training
    • PALS certification required
    • One year acute care experience recommended
    • BSN prerequisite
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced pediatric healthcare practice
    • Independent patient care skills
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Primary care specialization
    • Holistic child health approach

Milwaukee School of Engineering

  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track
    • Hybrid program format
    • MSN degree program
    • CCNE accredited
    • Apply through NursingCAS
    • Graduate admissions inquiry available
    • U.S. News Best Online Programs 2026
    • Contact director for admissions

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Nursing program.
    • Clinical Nurse Leader track.
    • On-campus format.
    • 42 graduate credits total.
    • Two pathway options available.
    • Accredited simulation center.
    • Hands-on experiential learning.
    • Over $500,000 in scholarships.
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year, 65-credit DNP program
    • Hybrid program delivery
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • One year RN experience required
    • Advanced clinical leadership focus
    • Specialty practicum included
    • Comprehensive doctoral project
    • Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • 32-credit online DNP program
    • 460-hour leadership immersion
    • $1,000 per credit tuition
    • Scholarships over $500,000
    • Flexible fall/spring start
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • RN license prerequisite
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Post-Master's DNP Program
    • 26-32 total credit hours
    • Online Program Option
    • Advanced Practice Specialization
    • 460 Clinical Practice Hours
    • 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
    • One Year RN Experience
    • Leadership Practice Immersion
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Three-year, 65-credit DNP program
    • Multiple entry pathway options
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • One year RN experience required
    • Online and part-time study available
    • 460 clinical practice hours
    • Advanced pharmacology training
  • MSN to DNP - Nursing Practice, DNP

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year, 65-credit DNP program
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • One year RN experience required
    • Advanced clinical leadership focus
    • Comprehensive family healthcare training
    • Specialty practicum included
    • 460 clinical practice hours
  • MSN to DNP - Nursing Practice, DNP: Clinical Nurse Specialist

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology - Online Learning - Website

    • Three-year, 65-credit DNP program
    • Online and part-time options
    • Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist focus
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • One year RN experience needed
    • Multiple entry pathway options
    • Advanced practice leadership training
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • MSN to DNP - Nursing Practice, DNP: Nursing System Leadership: Nurse Executive

    Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Website

    • Three-year online DNP program
    • 65 total credit hours
    • Post-master's curriculum available
    • Advanced nursing leadership focus
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Current RN license needed
    • Doctorate-level practice preparation
    • Leadership practice immersion
  • MSN to DNP - Nursing Practice, DNP: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 65-credit doctoral nursing program
    • Three entry pathway options
    • Online and part-time study
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • One year RN experience required
    • Specialized psychiatric mental health track
    • 460 clinical immersion hours

Waukesha, WI

Carroll University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 40-credit graduate nursing program
    • Hybrid online/in-person delivery
    • Eight-week course format
    • Clinical practicum in current workplace
    • Prepare for NLN certification
    • Small class sizes
    • State-of-the-art simulation facilities
    • 19% projected job growth
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024, National Center for Education Statistics.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Milwaukee, WI

If you're looking for nursing schools near Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this list can help you find options. It includes schools in the area with their locations, key program details, and direct links to learn more. You can explore different programs to see which fits your goals. Check the table below for specific information on each school's offerings and how to get in touch.
Jump to City:

Mequon, WI

Concordia University-Wisconsin

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 121 credits required.
    • 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
    • Average financial aid award $23,395.
    • Direct admission into nursing major.
    • No waitlist for admissions.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Christ-centered education.
    • Guaranteed spot in nursing courses.

Milwaukee, WI

Alverno College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • No wait list for clinicals.
    • Scholarships up to $23,000.
    • Small class sizes.
    • State-of-the-art simulation centers.
    • Clinical instructors are practicing RNs.
    • Comprehensive curriculum.
    • Prepares for NCLEX exam.
    • Strong local healthcare partnerships.

Marquette University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year comprehensive BSN program
    • Direct freshman admission guaranteed
    • High national licensing exam pass rates
    • Diverse clinical learning experiences
    • Honors program options available
    • Multiple clinical practice settings
    • Study abroad opportunities
    • Optional minor programs

Milwaukee Area Technical College

  • Associate - Registered Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-Year Associate Degree
    • NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
    • Downtown Milwaukee and Mequon campuses
    • Nursing Assistant training required
    • ACEN accredited program
    • Theory and lab courses on campus
    • Clinical practice included
    • High school biology and chemistry prerequisites

Milwaukee School of Engineering

  • Bachelor's - B.S. in Nursing - Accelerated Second-Degree Track

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program length
    • Two admission periods yearly
    • Extensive clinical hours
    • Simulation experiences included
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate
    • Full accreditation
    • Meets licensure in most states
    • Designed for career changers
  • Bachelor's - B.S. in Nursing - Traditional Track

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time curriculum
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Meets most state licensure requirements
    • Focus on teamwork and communication
    • Practical learning emphasis
    • Guaranteed progression for eligible students
    • Designed for first-time college students

Mount Mary University

  • Bachelor's - BSN Pre-Licensure

    Campus Based - Website

    • State-of-the-art simulation labs
    • Guaranteed clinical placements
    • No previous CNA work required
    • Small class sizes
    • NCLEX preparation focus
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA for admission
    • Four-year program
    • Average 15 credits per semester

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  • Bachelor's - BS in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-year program
    • Campus-based learning
    • NCLEX preparation included
    • Over $500,000 in scholarships
    • 160 clinical agency partners
    • Pre-nursing and professional major phases
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Financial aid options available

Wisconsin Lutheran College

  • Bachelor's - Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Direct admission for freshmen.
    • State-of-the-art nursing lab.
    • Diverse clinical experiences.
    • Christian servant leadership focus.
    • Cultural health clinical option.
    • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
    • High employment rate post-graduation.
    • Accredited by CCNE.

Pewaukee, WI

Waukesha County Technical College

  • Associate - Nursing - Associate Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • 65-credit Associate Degree.
    • Prepares for NCLEX exam.
    • Campus-based, full-time.
    • 8-week courses.
    • Hands-on high-tech labs.
    • Work as LPN after fourth term.
    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Requires high school GPA 2.60.

Waukesha, WI

Carroll University

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year program duration.
    • Culturally-competent care focus.
    • Modern nursing lab facilities.
    • Clinical practicum experiences included.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • 2.5 GPA requirement.
    • Bilingual applicants preferred.
    • RN-MSN pathway available.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 100% NCLEX pass rate 2023.
    • Hands-on clinical placements.
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
    • Cross-cultural experience opportunities.
    • Specializations in various care areas.
    • Supportive faculty and peer relationships.
    • Rigorous curriculum with academic support.
    • Early nursing courses from first year.
*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2024.