Navigating Nursing Colleges in Wisconsin: A Comprehensive Guide

For individuals aspiring to a fulfilling career in healthcare, nursing offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives. The path to becoming a registered nurse (RN) begins with attending nursing school, and Wisconsin boasts a diverse array of options to suit various needs and aspirations. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of nursing colleges in Wisconsin, encompassing program types, key considerations for choosing a school, and the steps to launching a nursing career in the state.

Why Choose a Nursing Career?

A career in healthcare provides a chance to help, heal, and bring hope; a chance to learn and to find a purpose, fulfill a passion and gain a life of rewards. Academic institutions in Wisconsin offer a wide variety of nursing education programs.

Accredited Nursing Programs in Wisconsin

Accreditation is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a nursing program. Accrediting bodies are government-recognized organizations that evaluate the academic quality of programs. Three national organizations accredit nursing education programs: The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, (ACEN). Attending an accredited school ensures that your education meets established standards and that you will be eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), a requirement for licensure.

Accredited schools in Wisconsin cover a wide range of programs throughout the state from rural to urban to virtual campuses. They offer Bachelor of Science Degree Nursing, Associate Degree, and Licensed Practical Nursing programs. There are also numerous BSN completion programs to advance those having earlier degrees to the baccalaureate level. If you have already earned an undergraduate degree in another subject area, accelerated programs can shorten length of study time to earn an additional degree in the field of nursing. Advanced degrees such as Master’s, and Doctoral programs are also readily available and prepare the student for work in administration, advanced nursing practice, education and research. Advance Practice Nurses (APN) include Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Midwives, Nurse Anesthetists and a somewhat new role, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Types of Nursing Programs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers a variety of nursing programs to accommodate different educational backgrounds and career goals:

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Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): ADN programs typically take two years to complete and provide a foundation in nursing principles and clinical skills. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and work as registered nurses.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): BSN programs are four-year programs that offer a more comprehensive education in nursing theory, leadership, and research. Many employers require or prefer a BSN for higher-level positions.
RN-to-BSN Programs: These programs are designed for registered nurses with an ADN who wish to earn a BSN degree. GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months.
Accelerated BSN Programs: These programs are designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. They allow students to earn a BSN in a shorter amount of time, typically 12-18 months.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, and clinical nurse specialist.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): DNP programs are the highest level of nursing education and prepare nurses for leadership roles in clinical practice, administration, and education.

Featured Nursing Colleges and Universities in Wisconsin

Bellin College: At Bellin College we are devoted to providing you with an excellent education that fulfills this promise and prepares you for the demands of the rapidly changing healthcare environment. Founded in 1909, Bellin College is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit institution, and one of Wisconsin’s premier private colleges specializing in health sciences degrees. Bellin College offers such a personal collegiate experience, carries its values into everyday learning and provides a critical foundation for students to carry with us into our careers. I chose Bellin College because I fell in love with the top of the line technology, the small class sizes, the friendly atmosphere, and the unique program. Another reason I chose Bellin College was for their direct admissions. I didn’t want to wait to continue my education, and now I will be able to get my bachelor’s degree in four years. Bellin College was a perfect fit. I jumped into nursing school with both feet and three young children and haven’t looked back.
Carroll University: Founded in 1846, Carroll University is the oldest institution of higher education in Wisconsin. Carroll is known for its Pioneer Core, a general education requirement that ensures all students receive a well-rounded education. After completing the Pioneer Core, nursing students can begin their BSN core courses.
Chamberlain University: Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers BSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education.
Concordia University: Concordia University is a private Lutheran college located in Mequon on the shores of Lake Michigan. Along with a beautiful campus, based only a short drive from Milwaukee, Concordia also offers students a low 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio and is ranked as the safest campus in Wisconsin. While the tuition is high, nursing students earn an average financial aid award of $16,603, cutting into the total cost of the program.
Edgewood College: A liberal arts school founded in the Catholic Dominican tradition, Edgewood College has an incredibly low 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of just 13. High school applicants with a GPA of 3.5 and an ACT score of 24 can gain guaranteed admission to the School of Nursing.
Maranatha Baptist University: Maranatha Baptist University, although small in size, has had a huge impact on my life. Maranatha is not just a place for academic learning, but it is a place to grow in your walk with God and with…
Marquette University: Among the top private schools in the region, Marquette University’s high tuition rate is well worth the education. The undergraduate nursing program gives nursing students the chance to study abroad or earn an internship in Washington, DC. Marquette also has an honors nursing program, and students receive a BSN with Honors upon completing the degree.
Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE): While it may not sound like it, Milwaukee School of Engineering is home to an excellent nursing program. The traditional BSN program began in 1995 and uses some of the newest technologies in laboratories and classrooms. An accelerated second degree for current BS or BA holders is also available. Upon graduation, 95% of MSOE students find a job in their field or continue on to graduate school.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire: As one of the top public schools in the region, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire provides an excellent education for the in-state tuition cost. Students pursuing a BSN have two options of study: on-campus in Eau Claire or at the Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield. Both locations are staffed by UW-Eau Claire professors, so you can pick whichever site works best for you.
University of Wisconsin-Madison: Perhaps the best-known school in the state, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has been educating students since 1848. You can earn a BSN in nearly any way in Wisconsin, though the traditional BSN is the most popular program. The traditional BSN is a 2+2 program, meaning two years of nursing prerequisite courses before entering the two-year nursing program.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is one of the largest schools in the state, home to 24,000 students. Roughly ¾ of graduates end up working in Wisconsin, which means UWM has an extensive alumni network for nursing school grads to tap into. News & World Report, the nursing program consistently ranks in the top 15% of nursing schools with graduate programs.
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh: The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is a nationally recognized research school located in Fox Valley. The top nursing program at UW Oshkosh's traditional undergraduate nursing program has two options: a five-semester program or a year-round program with a hybrid of on-campus and online courses. From start to finish, students can earn their BSN in 3.5-4.5 years, depending on which option they choose.
Viterbo University: Viterbo University is a small, private school with just 2,521 students. However, with over 100 years of educating students, Viterbo is also one of the top schools in Wisconsin. The School of Nursing has a BSN and BSN completion program, and the traditional BSN has an impressive 100% job placement rate upon graduation. Nursing students also have the option to study abroad and still complete the degree in four years.
WGU: WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Nursing Program

With so many nursing schools in Wisconsin, it can be hard to choose. Factors to consider include cost (tuition, expenses, and financial aid); program quality; admission requirements and acceptance rates; the clinical placement process; and program logistics. If you plan to attend online, see if you can get clinical placement in your community.

Program Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: Look for programs with a high NCLEX-RN pass rate, as this indicates the quality of the program's curriculum and instruction. The pass rate for the NCLEX-RN exam in 2019 for nursing programs in Wisconsin was 90.3%, slightly higher than the national average of 88%.
Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty's qualifications and experience.
Clinical Opportunities: Inquire about the types of clinical experiences offered and the hospitals or healthcare facilities where students complete their clinical rotations.
Program Cost and Financial Aid: Consider the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses, and explore financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and loans.
Program Length and Flexibility: Choose a program that fits your schedule and learning style.

Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools in Wisconsin

Nursing schools often have additional, stricter requirements for admission than colleges, and admission into a college does not guarantee admission into nursing school.

High School Diploma or Equivalent: A high school diploma or GED is required for admission to most nursing programs. High school applicants with a GPA of 3.5 and an ACT score of 24 can gain guaranteed admission to the School of Nursing at Edgewood College.
Prerequisite Courses: Many nursing programs require students to complete prerequisite courses in science, math, and English.
GPA Requirements: Most nursing programs have minimum GPA requirements for admission.
Entrance Exams: Some nursing programs may require students to take an entrance exam such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS).
Background Check: A criminal background check is required for admission to most nursing programs.

Applying to Nursing School

After spending some time researching schools you’re interested in, the next step is to move forward with applications. Contact each school’s admissions offices. Schools sometimes have specific requirements you need to follow when applying. Check to see if you meet the nursing school requirements.

Prepare Your Application Materials: Gather transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay.
Submit Your Application(s): After you’ve prepared your application materials, the final step is to send in applications! Additional materials may also be required by a school or nursing program.

Steps to Becoming a Registered Nurse in Wisconsin

For a nursing license, you must complete an approved nursing program in Wisconsin or another state, pass the NCLEX-RN, and complete a criminal background check.

Complete an Approved Nursing Program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a state-approved nursing program.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: Register for and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
Apply for Licensure: Apply to the Wisconsin Board of Nursing for licensure as a registered nurse. Only graduates of state-approved nursing schools in Wisconsin can apply online. All other applicants must print out materials from the state board of nursing. The application fee is $72; the NCLEX-RN registration fee is $200.
Complete a Criminal Background Check: Complete a criminal background check as required by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing.
Maintain Your License: Wisconsin is one of the few states that does not require continuing education to renew your RN license. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), however, must submit proof of continuing education.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Wisconsin

More than 63,000 RNs work in Wisconsin, mostly in hospitals. Wisconsin’s cost of living is below average (95.5 compared to the national index of 100), and the average RN salary is slightly below the national average. The average RN salary in Wisconsin is $74,760 versus $80,010 nationally. The average annual salary for Wisconsin RNs is $91,310, considerably higher than the national average of $80,010. Job growth for nurses is slower than in the nation as a whole.

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Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Wisconsin:
- Madison: $82,330
- Milwaukee - Waukesha - West Allis: $76,750
- La Crosse - Onalaska: $76,270
- Oshkosh - Neenah: $72,400
- Racine: $72,360

Nurse Licensure Compact

Wisconsin participates in the nurse licensure compact. This means that when you graduate from nursing school in Wisconsin or another participating state, you can apply for a multistate nursing license. Wisconsin is part of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) which means that nursing licenses in Wisconsin work in most other states (and vice versa).

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Requirements

To apply for APRN licensing in Wisconsin, you’ll need a master of science in nursing or doctor of nursing practice; confirmation of your RN license in an NLC state, degree, and board certification; and proof of at least 45 contact hours in clinical pharmacology or therapeutics within the last five years. Once you apply to the state board of nursing, you must pass an open book jurisprudence (law) examination. If you plan to prescribe independently, you must submit proof of malpractice insurance. The fee is $132.

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