Wisconsin Nursing Programs
Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to specialize further, Wisconsin provides opportunities tailored to every career goal. Beyond its strong educational offerings, Wisconsin is an excellent place to practice nursing, with demand for healthcare professionals steadily increasing. In fact, nursing job opportunities in the state are projected to grow by 4% over the next decade, making it an ideal time to enter the field. From its top-tier universities to affordable community college programs and accelerated options, Wisconsin has something to offer every aspiring nurse. Explore the sections below to learn more about the best, fastest, and most cost-effective nursing education pathways in the state.
Wisconsin Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Because of the various types of nursing degree programs available, for many students, it can be hard to find the right entry-level degree program for their specific needs. There are three primary entry-level nursing programs to choose from — an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here’s a breakdown of each:
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
Entry-level nursing students often choose between ADN programs and nursing diploma options, but what sets them apart? For those seeking the fastest pathway, ADN programs and nursing diplomas are popular choices as they typically require only one to two years of full-time study. The key difference is that an ADN program awards an associate degree, while a nursing diploma focuses primarily on hands-on training and foundational nursing skills. If you’re already working as an LPN, Wisconsin also offers LPN to RN bridge programs, enabling students to earn either an ADN or a BSN in less time, making it an excellent option for advancing your nursing career.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Wisconsin include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Wisconsin.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an excellent choice for Wisconsin students looking to invest more time in their education, especially those planning to pursue graduate degrees in the future. A traditional BSN program typically takes about four years to complete, providing a comprehensive foundation for a nursing career. However, if you already hold an RN license and an ADN, you can fast-track your education by enrolling in an RN to BSN program, allowing you to earn your BSN in as little as two years. Similarly, if you have a bachelor’s degree in another field, Accelerated BSN programs are available, enabling you to complete your BSN in just one to two years, making them a practical and efficient option for career changers or those eager to advance in the nursing profession.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Wisconsin typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Four years can be a lot of time to invest in a degree, especially if you’re already working as a nurse. Fortunately, a Wisconsin RN to BSN serves as a great option for students who have an RN license and an associate’s degree in nursing, allowing working nurses to get their BSN in half the time.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
In many cases, some students decide to become nurses later in life long after they have already received a bachelor’s degree in another field. Through a Wisconsin ABSN program, these students will be even better positioned to receive their BSN in a faster amount of time, in some cases, only a year.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Nurses in Wisconsin hoping to advance their careers will find many options to do so in the graduate realm. Whether you are looking for a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), there's a program sure to meet your specific expectations.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Wisconsin:
- Wisconsin Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Wisconsin MSN Program
- Alabama Accelerated MSN Program
- Wisconsin RN to MSN Programs
- Wisconsin Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Wisconsin DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Wisconsin
The licensure process for aspiring nurses in Wisconsin follows a structure similar to other states. It begins with passing the NCLEX-RN, a critical exam assessing nursing competencies. After successfully completing the exam, candidates must submit a formal application to the Wisconsin Board of Nursing, along with the required fee. Once licensed, nurses are responsible for maintaining their credentials by completing continuing education courses during each renewal period, ensuring they stay updated on the latest practices and advancements in the nursing field.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Wisconsin
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Wisconsin Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting a nursing program in Wisconsin is RN program accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the rigorous standards set by the state nursing board, which is essential for eligibility for licensure. Graduating from a non-accredited program can disqualify you from obtaining a nursing license. The two primary accrediting bodies for nursing programs in Wisconsin and nationwide are the the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Ensuring your program is accredited by one of these organizations is a crucial step in your nursing education journey.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Wisconsin
List of Nursing Schools in Wisconsin
Cleveland, WI
Lakeshore Technical College
- Associate - Nursing-Associate Degree
Campus Based - Website
- Higher NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Hands-on training facility.
- Affordable tuition cost.
- Starts fall or spring.
- Requires background check.
- B or better in Anatomy.
- Total cost $13,739.05.
- 65 Credits required.
Eau Claire, WI
Chippewa Valley Technical College
- Associate - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 70 Credit Associate Degree
- Two Years Program Length
- Face-to-Face Delivery Method
- Eau Claire, River Falls Locations
- August, January Start Months
- Financial Aid Eligible
- Advanced Placement Available
- High Employment Rates
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- Bachelor's - BSN Completion Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and in-person learning.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Meets licensure in multiple states.
- Rolling admissions for flexibility.
- Focus on leadership and research.
- Prepares for higher nursing roles.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Combines work and study seamlessly.
Fennimore, WI
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 65 credits required
- NCLEX-RN exam eligible
- State-of-the-art simulators
- Financial aid available
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Strong employment outcomes
- Admission requires HESI exam
Fond du Lac, WI
Moraine Park Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree with a Practical Nursing Exit Point
Campus Based - Website
- 68 credits over 2 years.
- High NCLEX pass rate of 96%.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- ACEN accredited program.
- Financial aid eligible.
- Median salary $66,828 in WI.
- Online application required.
- Health and background checks needed.
Green Bay, WI
Bellin College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Three-year traditional option.
- Transfer option available.
- 15-month fast-track program.
- Extensive clinical experience.
- Leadership emphasis.
- Multiple specialties learning.
- Latest technology used.
- Experienced faculty.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
- Associate - Nursing - Associate Degree
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN.
- High job placement rate.
- Financial aid eligible.
- Includes clinical experience.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Background check required.
- Compliance with Caregiver Law.
- Quality education standards.
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Strong healthcare partnerships.
- Leadership in nursing focus.
- Accredited program.
- March 1 application start.
- May 15 application deadline.
Hayward, WI
Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University
- Associate - Associate of Science Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester program duration
- Small class sizes
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Holistic and culturally sensitive curriculum
- Eligibility for NCLEX-PN after first year
- Eligibility for NCLEX-RN upon completion
- Requires minimum 2.5 GPA for admission
- ATI TEAS scores required
Janesville, WI
Blackhawk Technical College
- Associate - Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning options
- Four-semester program
- Full-time or part-time study
- Accredited by ACEN
- Estimated tuition $10,969
- Median wage $85,500
- Requires health insurance
- Background check required
Kenosha, WI
Carthage College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Direct-entry admission option.
- Early clinical experience starts sophomore year.
- 100% job placement for graduates.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- Strong faculty mentorship program.
- Comprehensive career development support.
- Liberal arts and sciences foundation.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
Gateway Technical College
- Associate - Nursing – Associate Degree
Campus Based - Website
- 66 program credits
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Flexible course schedules
- No program entry wait-lists
- High-fidelity human patient simulators
- Clinical placements in health care facilities
- International service learning opportunities
- Student Nurses’ Association network
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Clinical placements in Racine-Kenosha.
- Holistic admission review.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Degree from UW-Milwaukee.
- Pre-nursing and professional phases.
- Minimum GPA requirements.
- Volunteer experience considered.
La Crosse, WI
Viterbo University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Direct admission
- Four-year graduation guarantee
- Exceptional NCLEX preparation
- 100% career placement rate
- Early clinical experiences
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Study abroad programs
- Strong clinical partnerships
Western Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning model.
- 66.00 credits required.
- Financial aid eligible.
- ACEN accredited.
- High-fidelity simulation labs.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- Focus on critical thinking.
- Emphasis on patient care.
Madison, WI
Edgewood University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 99% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Low clinical faculty-to-student ratio.
- Over 80 clinical placement partners.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Requires 2.75 GPA for admission.
- CPR certification needed.
- Combines general and nursing education.
- Emphasizes patient-centered care.
Madison Area Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration
- Hands-on clinical experience
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate
- Competitive graduate salaries
- Financial aid available
- Background check required
- Immunizations and CPR needed
- State-of-the-art facilities
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.
Oshkosh, WI
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
- Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program duration
- Hybrid learning format
- Three start dates yearly
- Less than 1% attrition rate
- NCLEX pass rates exceed average
- Accredited by CCNE
- Online theory courses
- Clinical rotations near home
- Bachelor's - BSN@Home
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN program
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Flexible study schedules
- Personalized faculty advising
- Accredited by CCNE
- Pathway to graduate programs
- Scholarships available
- Employer tuition reimbursement
- Bachelor's - Traditional BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- Five-semester or year-round options.
- Clinical rotations in healthcare facilities.
- Study abroad opportunities available.
- Supervised by CON instructors.
- Face-to-face and online classes.
- Admission requirements specific.
- Fall 2025 applications open.
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.
Plymouth, WI
Lakeland University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Partnership with Moraine Park Technical College.
- Hands-on clinical rotations.
- Cooperative Education program.
- Explore 12 nursing specialties.
- Paid on-the-job experience.
- Competitive tuition.
- Financial aid available.
Rhinelander, WI
Nicolet Area Technical College
- Associate - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Associate Degree in Nursing
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Accredited program
- Financial aid eligible
- Total cost $10,729
- Includes clinical experiences
- Background check required
- Critical thinking focus
Rice Lake, WI
Northwood Technical College
- Associate - LPN to ADN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- 70 credits over 2 years.
- Financial aid eligible.
- LPN license required for admission.
- Prepares for RN licensure exam.
- Includes clinical experiences.
- Capstone project required.
- Estimated tuition $12,568.
- Associate - Nursing - Associate Degree (Part-Time Option)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 70 Credits | 4 Years
- Financial Aid-Eligible
- Hybrid program
- Theory coursework Online
- On-site clinic requirements
- Career Cluster: Health Sciences
- Accredited by ACEN
- Approved by WI State Board
- Associate - Nursing - Associate Degree
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 70 Credits | 2 Years
- Financial Aid-Eligible
- Hybrid program type
- Accredited by ACEN
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Covers nursing fundamentals
- Includes clinical experiences
- Focus on holistic care
Stevens Point, WI
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Flexible hybrid program.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- RN to BSN completion option.
- Minimum GPA 2.5 required.
- Wisconsin residency needed.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
- Cost-effective education path.
- Synchronous Zoom hybrid format.
Watertown, WI
Maranatha Baptist University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Over 1,000 clinical hours.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- On-campus program.
- Biblical worldview integration.
- Ranked #1 in WI for 2024.
- Diverse clinical experiences.
- Medical missions opportunities.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
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.
Wausau, WI
Northcentral Technical College
- Associate - Nursing Associate Degree
Campus Based - Website
- 69 Credit Associate Degree
- ACEN accredited program
- 99% NCLEX pass rate
- Approximate cost $15,476
- Financial aid available
- High school transcript required
- 2.5 GPA or equivalent
- Campus-based program
Wauwatosa, WI
Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Campus Based - Website
- 20-month program length
- ACEN-accredited nursing education
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Combines classroom and clinical learning
- Focus on critical thinking skills
- Admission requires placement tests
- Program director interview required
- Background checks for clinical sites
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 125 credit hours
- Eight-semester program
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN
- Covers nursing management
- Clinical rotations included
- Focus on community health
- Requires placement tests
- Health documentation needed
Whitewater, WI
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Small class sizes.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Affordable nursing degree.
- Favorable student-to-faculty ratio.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
- Opportunities for advanced study.
- On-campus program.
Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Mid-State Technical College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program delivery.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Two-year program length.
- Financial aid eligible.
- Requires Nursing Assistant course.
- Clinical practice included.
- Leadership skills focus.
- Science and social sciences blend.
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