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In the nursing profession, current initiatives to raise the general level of college education means a number of things, including more demand for Registered Nurses (RNs), possibly higher average pay, and updated nursing school programs and learning technologies, amongst other positive results.
The initiative to raise the education level of professional RNs comes from the Institute of Medicine (IOM). Their recommendation is that, by 2020, 80% of American RNs have at least a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree, a doubling from the starting point of 40 percent. Nursing programs in Wisconsin have taken heed to this effort. Programs across "American's Dairyland" have stepped up to the plate to bring only the best of the best to future nursing students.
What kind of Nursing Degree in Wisconsin should you earn?
First thing's first. We're looking out for your budget. This particular list hones in on only the most affordable nursing degrees in Wisconsin. Why not maximize your return on investment and attend a quality school at a quality price?
Here's another thing to keep in mind: The nursing schools who are aligning with the IOM initiative are often offering a traditional four-year BSN program for new nursing students, as well as catering to transfer students, second-degree / second-career students and currently licensed RNs who hold a diploma or associate's degree in nursing.
How much money can you make with a Nursing Degree in Wisconsin?
The state of Wisconsin currently has about 55,410 active RNs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). These RNs earn a mean hourly wage of $32.66, which roughly translates into $67,930 per year.
The BLS also predicts that the RN profession will undergo an impressive 16% growth in job opportunities for RNs across the country, from 2014 to 2024. With great traditional four-year programs and affordable online options, now is a great time to jump into this career.
What are the Most Affordable Nursing Degrees in Wisconsin?
According to data from the NCES (National Center for Education Statistics), 20 nursing schools in Wisconsin were offering BSN programs in the past academic year. We've taken that list and removed programs/ schools that are inactive or defunct. The final result is the most affordable BSN programs in Wisconsin, sorted by in-state tuition.
Our data and information comes from college and university websites, the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, and U.S. News and World Report. Ready to take your nursing career to the next level? Read on!
Rankings
See our rankings methodology page.
#1 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
- Oshkosh, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh offers 63 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in nursing. Students can pursue many careers after earning their degree. Graduates can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.
The curriculum introduces key topics and principles in nursing. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates take general education courses that build writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Students can explore other interests by declaring a complementary minor or second major.
Student services support incoming degree candidates as they begin taking classes. For example, academic advisors work with enrollees to transfer credits into the school and select courses.
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh at a Glance:
Location: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Type of School: Public
Admissions Rate: 76%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,422
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,955
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
- Stevens Point, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point offers 64 bachelor's programs, including an RN-to-BSN completion program. The degree prepares students for a variety of entry-level careers in the healthcare field. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.
The curriculum covers the major principles and methods in nursing. Undergraduates also complete general education courses, gaining widely applicable skills such as writing, communication, and critical thinking. Declaring a minor or double majoring helps students explore other interests.
Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, academic advisors meet with students to recommend course selections and review graduation requirements.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point at a Glance:
Location: Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Type of School: Public
Admissions Rate: 85%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,698
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,402
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
- Green Bay, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its traditional BSN program. Degree-seekers take classes online and on the Green Bay campus. The school's flexible course options, along with high academic standards, meet the needs of many undergraduates.
Students earn a BSN after taking major-specific and general education courses. The general education curriculum includes courses in diverse academic subjects like the humanities, math, and natural sciences. Advanced nursing courses cover theoretical and practical topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or a higher degree.
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay at a Glance:
Admissions Rate: 85%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 43
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,298
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,516
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $5,117
Graduation Rate: 53%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $36,500
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- Eau Claire, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, a public institution, enrolls learners in its top-ranked bachelor's in nursing program. Degree-seekers take classes online and on the Eau Claire campus. Undergraduates benefit from flexible program options, rigorous academics, and the school's support services.
The program incorporates general education and major courses to build in-demand knowledge and skills. Students complete general education requirements by taking classes in the social sciences, STEM, and humanities. The major curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in diverse industries.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire at a Glance:
Admissions Rate: 82%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 53
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,361
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,636
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $5,524
Graduation Rate: 67%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $40,200
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees In Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Milwaukee, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The bachelor of science in nursing, one of 79 bachelor's programs at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, offers a flexible route to a college degree. The degree prepares students for a variety of entry-level careers in diverse industries. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.
The curriculum introduces major principles and practices in health informatics. Undergraduates also gain research, writing, and communication skills through general education requirements. Degree candidates can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.
The school's student services help incoming degree candidates thrive in their bachelor's program. Financial aid counselors work with enrollees to determine the best sources of educational funding, including grants, scholarships, and loans.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee at a Glance:
Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Type of School: Public
Admissions Rate: 77%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,091
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,661
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission