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Best Value Registered Nursing Colleges in Wisconsin

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Rasmussen University-Wisconsin delivers the highest graduate earnings at $73,870 despite being a for-profit institution, while University of Wisconsin-Green Bay offers the most affordable path at just $12,878 net cost with solid $66,287 earnings. This creates a fascinating value spectrum where students can choose between immediate affordability and maximum earning potential. Wisconsin's healthcare market, anchored by Epic Systems in Madison and major hospital networks statewide, provides abundant opportunities for nursing graduates across specializations from bedside care to administrative leadership. The state's 20 nursing programs range from $10,044 to $29,237 in net costs, with public universities typically offering the strongest value proposition. UW-Madison stands out with an 89.30% graduation rate, though its 49.06% acceptance rate makes it the most selective option. Most programs maintain acceptance rates above 70%, ensuring accessible pathways into Wisconsin's growing healthcare sector where nurses fill critical roles in both urban medical centers and rural communities.
26
Programs
$10,044 – $29,237
Net Price Range
$62,442
Avg. Program Earnings
57.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

26 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,878 $66,287 $8,342 53.1% 89.6%
2 $14,761 $59,556 $8,212 57.9% 88.5%
3 $18,847 $73,870 $11,982 62.5%
4 $16,928 $64,769 $11,205 89.3% 49.1%
5 $16,177 $60,851 $10,020 51.2% 86.3%
6 $16,948 $62,012 $9,277 67.6% 76.6%
7 $16,722 $60,999 $32,794 50.5% 89.9%
8 $17,613 $60,799 $13,420 50.0% 93.5%
9 $18,796 $60,799 $13,420 40.0% 95.1%
10 $20,319 $60,799 $13,420 27.6% 94.5%
11 $21,315 $62,111 $35,080 62.7% 93.8%
12 $22,633 $65,052 $32,350 65.2% 72.4%
13 $25,634 $65,812 $34,850 67.4% 98.6%
14 $23,341 $59,320 $33,000 41.2% 71.6%
15 $24,362 $61,317 $37,230 69.6% 72.1%
16 $24,021 $60,030 $48,421 71.5% 63.5%
17 $26,067 $62,154 $34,250 64.3% 70.4%
18 $29,237 $62,885 $48,700 80.1% 87.2%
19 $27,313 $56,979 $28,211 74.3% 92.9%
20 $10,044 $7,855 39.8% 72.8%
21 $22,092 $32,286 55.7% 99.5%
22 $13,726 $8,834 56.0% 89.1%
23 $24,813 $36,500 60.5% 81.8%
24 $15,135 $19,944 23.5%
25 $24,659 $20,280 65.7% 75.1%
26 $18,295 $34,390 58.9% 69.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Wisconsin-Green Bay the best value for nursing programs?

UW-Green Bay combines the lowest net cost at $12,878 with strong graduate earnings of $66,287, creating an impressive return on investment. The program maintains a 53.10% graduation rate with broad accessibility through an 89.62% acceptance rate. Students graduate with manageable debt of just $15,221, well below the state average.

How do private nursing programs compare to public options in Wisconsin?

Private programs typically cost $16,722 to $25,634 compared to public programs ranging from $12,878 to $16,948. However, some private institutions like Viterbo University offer competitive value with $65,052 earnings and a strong 65.20% graduation rate. The cost gap narrows when considering that private programs often provide more individualized attention and smaller class sizes.

Does Rasmussen University justify its higher costs with better outcomes?

Rasmussen produces the highest graduate earnings at $73,870, significantly above the state average, with a solid 62.50% graduation rate. The $18,847 net cost represents good value when considering the earning potential. However, graduates carry $25,000 in debt, requiring careful financial planning despite the strong salary prospects.

Where do Wisconsin nursing graduates find the best job opportunities?

Wisconsin's healthcare sector employs over 140,000 workers, with major opportunities at Epic Systems, Aurora Health Care, and Ascension Wisconsin. The state's aging population and expanded Medicaid coverage drive demand across urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison, as well as underserved rural areas. Graduate earnings range from $56,979 to $73,870, reflecting strong regional demand for skilled nursing professionals.

Is University of Wisconsin-Madison worth the competitive admission process?

UW-Madison's 49.06% acceptance rate makes it highly selective, but the outcomes justify the competition with an strong 89.30% graduation rate. Graduates earn $64,769 with moderate debt of $20,659, while benefiting from the university's research opportunities and clinical partnerships. The program's reputation opens doors at top healthcare systems throughout Wisconsin and beyond.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.