Best Nursing Schools in Wisconsin
Selecting the best nursing school in Wisconsin can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Wisconsin by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 42 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.
For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).



See Our list of the Best Nursing Programs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is supporting the upward trend of further learning by offering flexible learning schedules and supplying many jobs for aspiring registered nurses. Approximately 1,900 job opportunities per year are projected over the next 5 years, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that the median salary for a nurse in Wisconsin is approximately $71,470 annually. With Wisconsin area schools graduating roughly 3,000 nurses a year (according to the Wisconsin Center for Nursing), becoming a registered nurse in the state is more convenient than ever.
For RN bridge programs visit:
ADN Programs in Wisconsin
There are over 20 schools in the state that offer an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN). At just 2 years in length, an ADN is a great way to become a registered nurse without having to go through too much schooling.
Wisconsin has many different types of schools that can provide your ADN, including community colleges and technical colleges of all different sizes.
What to Look For in an ADN Program in Wisconsin
With the variety of ADN programs in the area, you'll want to choose wisely. Focusing on a school that is committed to preparing you for your licensure exam should be a top priority. Other important items to consider when choosing a school include:
Accreditation
There are a few main entities that can provide legitimate accreditation to an ADN program. Some of these include the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), but you will also want to look for schools that hold accreditation from the Wisconsin Board of Nursing.
Licensing
You will want to ensure that upon completing the ADN program at your preferred school that you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (NCLEX). Of the nearly 3,520 people who took the NCLEX exam in Wisconsin for the first time in 2015, 87.3% received licenses.
Program Outcomes
It is wise to inquire about the statistics regarding your school's ADN program. The following are all good indications of the school's reputation:
- Graduation rate
- Licensure exam pass rate
- Graduate satisfaction
- Employment rate
The Milwaukee Area Technical College, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a great example of a school that offers an accredited ADN program in the state.
ADN Program Admission Requirements in Wisconsin
While different schools may have their own set of specific requirements, here is a sampling of requirements to enter an ADN program:
- Completed Academic Skills Assessment test (Accuplacer or ACT) with mandatory benchmark scores
- Completed pre-requisite classes (including Chemistry and Biology) with grades of C or higher
- Submit required immunization documentation
- Completed caregiver background check
Tuition and Costs of ADN Programs in Wisconsin
Tuition fees tend to vary from program to program. It's important to remember that tuition is just one portion of what you'll be paying for. Textbooks, fees, and uniforms are all examples of costs you may incur, and these may or may not be included in the price of your school's tuition. As an example, the estimated program cost for the 2-year ADN program at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, Wisconsin is $13,307 including tuition, fees, and books.
Advantages of ADN Programs
The advantage of going through an ADN program is the sheer amount of schools in the state that offer it, in addition to the shorter length of the program at just 2 years. These perks make it a snap to find a great program and get started with a rewarding nursing career very quickly.
LPN to RN Programs in Wisconsin
For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Wisconsin, there are specialized programs designed to bridge the gap to registered nursing. Known as LPN to RN programs, they credit students for certain nursing courses that have already been completed in their prior coursework. This means that students can earn an RN degree in a fraction of the time.
LPN to ADN/BSN Programs
LPN students who wish to advance have the option of earning an ADN or a BSN degree through their transition program. The LPN to ADN is the basic option, leading to an RN degree in less than a year. Appleton's Fox Valley Technical College offers a full-time LPN to RN program that allows up to 19 credits of prior coursework. For those wanting a higher-level RN degree, the LPN to BSN option culminates in the ever-popular bachelor's degree. Herzing University offers an LPN to BSN program that can be completed in just 28 months.
LPN to RN programs in the state will typically require one or more of the following to be eligible for admission:
- Transcripts from high school/colleges attended
- Proof of current LPN licensure
- TEAS exam scores
- Completion of all prerequisite courses
BSN Programs in Wisconsin
Whether you are already a registered nurse looking to further your career or are just interested in a more advanced nursing degree from the get-go, a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a great choice. A bit lengthier than an ADN program, a 4-year BSN program offers increased nursing career choices and earning potential. Larger universities tend to offer BSN programs. Roughly 20 schools all around the state offer BSN programs.
What To Look For in a BSN Program in Wisconsin
Because so many schools offer a BSN program in the area, there are many choices to consider. This makes it especially important to do the research and choose the right school and program for you. You'll want to assure that your school of choice has proper accreditation, is equipped to prepare you for your licensure exams, and has positive program outcomes. If you are already a registered nurse, you'll want to see if the school offers an RN to BSN program.
A great example of a school that offers an accredited BSN program in the state is Edgewood College located in Madison, Wisconsin.
BSN Program Length in Wisconsin
A traditional BSN program is 4 years in length. However, it tends to be shorter if you are doing an RN to BSN program or an accelerated program. Inquire with your school of choice about the program options available.
BSN Program Admission Requirements in Wisconsin
While each BSN program in will have its own unique set of requirements, here are a few requirements for admission that you might encounter when checking out schools in the area:
- Cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 and a minimum 2.75 GPA for all science and math courses
- Must complete a faculty interview
- Curricular, extracurricular, community service and personal activities are also strongly encouraged to be a good candidate for the program
Tuition and Costs of BSN Programs in Wisconsin
The state boasts a wide variety of BSN programs, all with their own tuition fees. As with ADN and other nursing programs, you may also have to pay additional fees for textbooks, uniforms, CPR certification, health records, and more. At Columbia College of Nursing, located in Glendale, Wisconsin, full-time tuition costs roughly $27,016 annually, not including the $50 application fee, a $200 tuition deposit, and a $114 graduation fee, among other fees.
Advantages of BSN Programs
Earning your BSN is an excellent way to further your career if you are already a registered nurse, and is a great career opportunity if you are looking to start working in the nursing field. Whether you choose the RN to BSN route or start out with a traditional BSN, you cast a wide net of advancement options and earning potential.
MSN Programs in Wisconsin
With close to 15 schools in the state that offer a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), the opportunity to earn a post-graduate degree in nursing is practically at your fingertips. This advanced degree can lead to nursing jobs including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Nurse Practitioner, among other specialties. You must already hold a BSN if you want to move on and earn an MSN.
MSN Program Length in Wisconsin
An RN to MSN program can last roughly 3 years, depending on the school and the previous coursework the student has taken. This program usually tries to accommodate the busy schedule of a working registered nurse. Some programs offer options to take full-time classes, part-time classes, or even online coursework.
MSN Admission Requirements in Wisconsin
Depending on your school of choice, requirements may vary slightly. Here is an example of some of the requirements you might face in a typical MSN program:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited nursing program
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Must submit official transcripts and a copy of current Wisconsin nursing license
- Must provide resume/CV and write a reflective essay
- Complete a personal interview with a graduate nursing faculty member
Tuition and Costs of MSN Programs in Wisconsin
MSN program costs can vary from school to school. The MSN program at Rasmussen College, located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is approximately $21,915 including tuition and fees.
For NP programs visit:
- Wisconsin DNP Programs
- Wisconsin FNP Programs
- Wisconsin Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Wisconsin Post-Graduate Certificate Nursing Programs
Getting a Wisconsin Nursing License
Wisconsin State Board of Nursing regulations for obtaining licensure are as follows:
Obtaining licensure through the examination process:
- Completed application - with fees paid
- Verification of education - Graduation or Completion form or official transcripts, sent directly to the Board via the institution attended
- NCLEX Registration - passing score upon completion
Obtaining licensure through the endorsement process you must include the above information, as well as the following:
- Verification of licensure from originating state
Learn more about WI RN license requirements at the State of Wisconsin - Department of Safety and Professional Services.
Accelerated Nursing Programs in Wisconsin
Working toward your degree, while working in your career can be a difficult task, but there is a bridging program offered by a couple of Wisconsin colleges that could help in obtaining your career goals. This program gives candidates the opportunity to pursue the program while working and gives candidates up to 5 years to complete the requirements. Accelerated BSN programs are also offered as an option and can be completed in 12 to 15 months. All prerequisite courses will add to the overall time frame and total cost of completing the programs. Tuition is based on the rate charged per credit hour required.
Carroll University
The nursing program at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin is based on knowledge, theory, and research. Students enrolled in the school's BSN pathway are given the tools to explore interdisciplinary options to further their success in nursing.
Maranatha Baptist University
Maranatha Baptist University's BSN program seeks to prepare compassionate Christian nurses. The curriculum aims to give students the knowledge and skills to care for patients in a variety of settings and fosters both spiritual and professional growth.
Fox Valley Technical College
The ADN program at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, Wisconsin emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, hands-on experience, and a supportive environment for the success of their graduates. Students are prepared to become leaders in the nursing field by providing excellent patient-centered care.
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Simulations, practical situations, clinical experiences, and theoretical components are all aspects of Milwaukee Area Technical College's comprehensive nursing curriculum. MATC's ADN pathway prepares graduates to become sought-after nursing professionals.
Blackhawk Technical College
Blackhawk Technical College in Janesville, Wisconsin is home to an acclaimed associate degree nursing program. With principles including evidence-based practice, patient advocacy, and quality of care, BTC's nursing program deftly prepares students for the rigors of registered nursing.
Waukesha County Technical College
Evidence-based practice and patient-centered care are the core values of the 65-credit associate degree nursing program at Waukesha County Technical College in Pewaukee. Students learn to become leaders in the holistic well-being of patients.
Mid-State Technical College
Mid-State Technical College's Marshfield campus offers a quality two-year associate degree program in nursing. Enrolled students utilize classroom learning, projects, labs, and clinical experiences to become exemplary registered nurses.
Bellin College
Performance, employability rates, and reputation all speak to the excellence of the nursing programs offered at Bellin College in Green Bay, Wisconsin. BSN program graduates are welcomed into the nursing profession in a variety of medical settings.
University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
Newly renovated space at the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh - College of Nursing brings about state-of-the art simulation labs, practice labs, and nursing tech suites. BSN graduates are given all the tools and faculty support needed to be at the top of the field.
Northcentral Technical College
Students enrolled in Northcentral Technical College's 70-credit associate degree in nursing program are taught through an innovative curriculum that emphasizes patient-centered care, leadership, and effective communication. NTC's program offers maximum flexibility with full-time and part-time options as well as night and weekend classes.
Moraine Park Technical College
Moraine Park Technical College is located in Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin, which is situated at the base of Lake Winnebago. Nurses graduating from MPTC are confident in the values of evidence-based practice, caring advocacy, and quality of care. Graduates enter the field as respected professionals.
Holy Family College
Manitowoc's Holy Family College (formerly Silver Lake College) offers a BSN program that prepares students for immediate nursing practice or for further nursing studies. This traditional 4-year program challenges students to swiftly and effectively respond to patient care needs in a variety of medical settings. NOTE: This school has closed as of Fall 2020.
Edgewood College
Edgewood College's Henry Predolin School of Nursing offers BSN pathways that include unmatched faculty support; in fact, the clinical faculty-to-student ratio is just 7 to 1. With a robust student nurses association, international travel opportunities to experience medically underserved areas, and high-tech clinical simulations, Edgewood College attracts top nursing students.
University of Wisconsin - Madison
The University of Wisconsin - Madison prepares exceptional RNs through its traditional BSN program. Students complete nursing prerequisites in the first 2 years of the program, followed by 2 years of nursing core. This selective program gives students the skills needed to excel in fast-paced medical environments that range in niche and scope.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College of Green Bay provides an associate degree in nursing pathway with flexible formats available. As of Fall 2020, the program will be delivered in 8-week courses, which include Nursing Pharmacology, Nursing Health Promotion, and much more.The school boasts a 96% graduate employment rate.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
The University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire focuses not just on academic excellence in the classroom, but also on providing the support needed to prepare nurses to become outstanding, compassionate, and skilled nursing professionals. BSN graduates learn to solve real-life problems confidently and accurately.
Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE)
MSOE University offers two distinctive BSN program pathways - the traditional option as well as the accelerated second-degree option. Both programs utilize classroom and laboratory learning to give students a well-rounded foundation in the art and science of nursing. MSOE is proud to report that 98% of their 2018-19 nursing grads are employed, enrolled in a master's program, or enlisted in the military upon graduation.
Nicolet College
Rhinelander's Nicolet College offers a flexible ADN program that can be completed online or on-campus. The curriculum focuses on responsibility, integrity, ethics, and evidence-based practice to train students to deliver safe and competent nursing care with a patient-centered approach.
Marquette University
Marquette University of Milwaukee offers innovative nursing program pathways. Their undergraduate offerings include a traditional BSN, BSN-ROTC programs, and multiple honors options. In addition to classroom, lab, clinical and simulated experiences, Marquette students can also participate in study abroad experiences and/or government internship programs.
Alverno College
Earning a BSN through Alverno College's JoAnn McGrath School of Nursing and Health Professions can set students on a course of lifetime nursing success. As one of the largest nursing departments in the state, Alverno has the ability to offer students expert faculty, clinical placements, and other state-of-the-art resources.
Continued List of All RN Programs in Wisconsin
Ranked | Program | Score | Website |
---|---|---|---|
#21 |
Viterbo University
900 Viterbo Drive, La Crosse, WI 54601
(888) 526-2626 Programs: BSN | 92.73 | viterbo.edu |
#22 |
Lakeshore Technical College
1290 North Ave, Cleveland, WI 53015
(920) 693-1000 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.65 | gotoltc.edu |
#23 |
Chippewa Valley Technical College
620 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
(715) 833-6200 | 92.42 | cvtc.edu |
#24 |
Madison Area Tech College
1705 Hoffman Street, Madison, WI 53704
(608) 246-6100 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.14 | madisoncollege.edu |
#25 |
Western Technical College
400 7th St N, La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 785-9200 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 91.51 | westerntc.edu |
#26 |
Concordia University Wisconsin
12800 N Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53097
(262) 243-5700 Programs: BSN, Accelerated BSN | 91.35 | cuw.edu |
#27 |
Southwest Tech
1800 Bronson Blvd, Fennimore, WI 53809
(608) 822-3262 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 90.59 | swtc.edu |
#28 |
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
505 Pine Ridge Drive, Shell Lake, WI 54871
(715) 394-6677 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 90.50 | witc.edu |
#29 |
Bryant and Stratton College
10950 W Potter Rd , Wauwatosa, WI 53226
(414) 302-7000 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 90.47 | bryantstratton.edu |
#30 |
Gateway Tech College
3520 30th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53144
(800) 247-7122 | 89.83 | gtc.edu |
#31 |
Alverno College
4425 N. Port Washington Rd, Glendale, WI 53212
(414) 326-2330 Programs: BSN | 89.81 | ccon.edu |
#32 |
Rasmussen - Wausau
1101 Westwood Dr, Wausau, WI 54401
(715) 841-8000 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.00 | rasmussen.edu |
#33 |
Marian University
45 S. National Ave., Fond du Lac, WI 54935
(800) 262-7426 Programs: BSN | 87.26 | marianuniversity.edu |
#34 |
Cardinal Stritch University
6801 N Yates Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53217
(414) 410-4000 Programs: BSN | 85.85 | stritch.edu |
#35 |
Herzing University - Brookfield
555 S Executive Dr, Brookfield, WI 53005
(262) 457-7624 Programs: BSN, Accelerated BSN | 85.05 | herzing.edu |
#36 |
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
1921 E. Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53211
(608) 263-5200 Programs: BSN | 84.24 | uwm.edu |
#37 |
Rasmussen - Green Bay
904 South Taylor Street, Green Bay, WI 54303
(920) 593-8400 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 81.79 | rasmussen.edu |
#38 |
Herzing University - Madison
5218 E Terrace Dr, Madison, WI 53718
(608) 249-6611 Programs: Associate in Nursing | 69.55 | herzing.edu |
#39 |
Wisconsin Lutheran College
8800 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226
(414) 443-8800 Programs: BSN | - | wlc.edu |
#40 |
Herzing University - Kenosha
W140N8917 Lilly Road , Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
(180) 059-6072 x4 | - | herzing.edu |
#41 |
George Williams College of Aurora
350 Constance Blvd, Williams Bay, WI 53191
(262) 245-5531 | - | gwc.aurora.edu |
#42 |
Carthage College of Nursing
2001 Alford Park Drive , Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 551-8500 | - | carthage.edu |
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.
Recent Articles

NP, DNP, and Ph.D. in Nursing: How High-Level Nursing Salaries Compare to MD Salaries in 2022So, you've decided to enter a medical career – congratulations. While money is not and should not be your sole…

What Are the Pros and Cons of Dual Degree Nursing Programs?In the United States, Dual Degree Nursing Programs (or DDNPs), sometimes called Combined Degrees, are degrees that mix nursing education…

Are You a Next Gen Nurse? Prepare for the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) Questions Now!When 65% of the medical errors involving nurses are related to poor clinical decision-making, it is high time to change…

Do Women’s Only RN to BSN Programs Exist?Nursing and women's-only colleges have a long, shared history. Up until the beginning of the 19th century, women generally were…

Is Travel Nursing the Right Adventure for You?Jetting off to a tropical location or new city for a few months while getting paid top dollar can be…