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Rural Colleges in Wisconsin

8 schools in Wisconsin. See our methodology.

Technical colleges dominate Wisconsin's rural education scene, with Southwest Wisconsin Technical College in Fennimore leading at a 54.1% graduation rate and $43,470 median earnings. The state's eight rural institutions show dramatic variation, from Lakeland University's $22,092 net price down to Lakeshore Technical College's $8,579. Wisconsin's manufacturing and healthcare sectors drive much of this practical education focus, with technical programs preparing students for roles at companies like GE Healthcare. Earnings potential ranges from $24,302 to $55,961, reflecting the state's agricultural and industrial job market. The University of Wisconsin-Parkside serves 2,951 students while maintaining a 72.8% acceptance rate, making it the largest rural option for traditional four-year degrees in the state.
8
Schools
$11,759
Avg. Net Price
$42,200
Avg. Earnings
39.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Rural Colleges in Wisconsin

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Rural-Remote 1,277 $10,277 54.1%
2 Rural-Distant 1,838 $8,579 42.8%
3 Rural-Fringe 706 $9,290 45.3%
4 Rural-Fringe 2,951 $10,044 39.8%
5 Rural-Distant 199 $10,498 27.5%
6 Rural-Fringe 1,230 $22,092 55.7%
7 Rural-Remote 205 $11,536 13.3%
8 Rural-Fringe 143

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes technical colleges so popular in rural Wisconsin?

Six of the eight rural colleges are technical institutions, reflecting Wisconsin's strong manufacturing base. These schools offer practical training for in-demand jobs, with graduates earning between $38,643 and $47,113 annually. The state's focus on technical education aligns with employer needs at companies like Epic Systems and GE Healthcare.

How affordable are rural Wisconsin colleges compared to urban options?

Net prices range from $8,579 at Lakeshore Technical College to $22,092 at Lakeland University. Most technical colleges cost under $11,000 annually, making them accessible options. The Wisconsin Grant program helps reduce costs further for qualifying students across the state's public institutions.

Is University of Wisconsin-Parkside the only traditional university option?

Parkside serves 2,951 students with a 72.8% acceptance rate and offers full four-year programs. Lakeland University in Plymouth provides another option with 1,230 students and a 99.5% acceptance rate, though at nearly double the cost at $22,092 net price.

Does tribal college education offer unique opportunities in rural Wisconsin?

Two tribal institutions serve rural areas: College of Menominee Nation with 199 students and Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University with 205 students. These colleges provide culturally relevant education, though graduation rates vary significantly from 13.3% to 27.5%, reflecting different student populations and support needs.

Where do rural Wisconsin college graduates typically find employment?

Median earnings range from $24,302 to $55,961, reflecting Wisconsin's agricultural, manufacturing, and healthcare job markets. Technical college graduates often work in manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, or agricultural operations throughout the state's rural communities and smaller cities.

Related

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.