Best Online Nursing Programs in Wisconsin – 2025 Accredited RN to BSN Programs

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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In a 2022 survey conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD, 2022), it was revealed that the state had 67,900 registered nurses. The survey also projected that the demand for nurses will prevail through 2040 at least.

If you graduate from one of the accredited WI nursing schools, you can pursue different types of nursing careers, which include a certified nursing assistant (CNA), a licensed practical nurse (LPN), and an RN, to name a few. There are many accredited institutions in Wisconsin that can provide you with the knowledge and skills to grow and succeed in this field.

Our team of researchers at Research.com has picked the best online nursing programs in Wisconsin and compiled them in this article. We have considered program length, tuition, credits, and accreditation to help aspiring nurses choose the best school for their needs.

Best Online Nursing Programs in Wisconsin Table of Contents

1. How to Become a Nurse in Wisconsin
2. What is the typical cost of online nursing programs in Wisconsin?
3. How long does it take to become a nurse in Wisconsin?
4. Can you become a nurse in Wisconsin with an online degree?
5. Online Nursing Programs in Wisconsin for 2025
6. Is Wisconsin good for nurses?
7. What can I do with a nursing degree in Wisconsin?
8. What accelerated pathways are available for non-nurses to enter the nursing field in Wisconsin?
9. How can you choose the best online nursing program in Wisconsin?
10. What professional networking opportunities are available through Wisconsin’s online nursing programs?
11. What are the current licensing requirements for nurses in Wisconsin?
12. What are the career prospects for advanced practice nurses in Wisconsin?
13. Can supplementary allied health certifications boost my nursing career in Wisconsin?
14. What are the employment outcomes and return on investment for Wisconsin's online nursing graduates?
15. What challenges do online nursing students in Wisconsin encounter and how can they overcome them?
16. How do LPN to RN online programs facilitate career transition in Wisconsin?
17. Can alternative healthcare career paths complement my nursing practice in Wisconsin?
18. How can I specialize as a nurse midwife in Wisconsin?
19. Can direct entry MSN programs accelerate advanced career pathways in Wisconsin?
20. How can I become a nurse practitioner in Wisconsin?

How to Become a Nurse in Wisconsin

The initial step to becoming a nurse in Wisconsin is earning a nursing degree approved by the state’s nursing board, The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services Nursing Board.

Aspiring nurses must obtain an accredited associate degree in nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or one of the LPN programs in Wisconsin. Then, they must take the National Council Licensure Examination [for] Registered Nurses or the NCLEX-RN. Their school must also submit a Statement of Graduation form directly to the board.

Prior to the examination, they may receive a temporary permit. This permit lets them practice with the supervision of an RN for three months or until they get notified about the NCLEX results. Note that there are requirements and a $10 fee for the temporary permit.

Other requirements for the Wisconsin nursing license are submitting fingerprints for a background check and an application for licensure form to the Department.

What is the typical cost of online nursing programs in Wisconsin?

The typical cost for Wisconsin students at a public, four-year, in-state college was around $17,875 in 2020-21 (National Center for Education Statistics, 2021). Online courses, including the fastest BSN to DNP program in the state, may have lower program costs by cutting housing and other related expenses. In our research, online nursing programs in Wisconsin can get as cheap as $335 per credit.

Some students reduce the cost of their nursing school in Wisconsin by taking pre-nursing courses at smaller two-year colleges and transferring their credits to bigger four-year universities. Each school has its own policy of transferring credits for pre-nursing coursework, so it’s important to ask your school of choice before starting your pre-nursing class.

Nonresidents may also be eligible for in-state tuition if they live in one of the ten member states that create the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP), a Midwestern Higher Education Compact program. The states in this program are Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, and Nebraska. Over 100 schools participate in the MSEP and agree to charge students in participating states no more than 150% of the in-state tuition fee for certain programs. They also offer a 10% discount on tuition at private schools.

Wisconsin and Minnesota also share a tuition reciprocity program, in which learners in each state spend in-state tuition at the other state’s public schools.

How long does it take to become a nurse in Wisconsin?

The time it takes to become a nurse in Wisconsin depends on your degree level. For instance, a BSN can take four years as a full-time student. Many students also finish certification programs first or ADNs before proceeding to Wisconsin BSN programs. Some even opt to enroll in a cheap RN to BSN program since this usually takes one to two years to finish. Some nursing programs may be shortened if you can complete your practicum hours during the course of your studies or take accelerated nursing programs in Wisconsin.

Can you become a nurse in Wisconsin with an online degree?

Wisconsin is home to 65 nonprofit colleges and universities; 32 of these are public schools, and 33 are private. Many offer online education, including the best online RN to BSN programs. Online nursing programs in Wisconsin are possible with the help of learning management systems (LMS), enabling virtual studying through video lectures, online forums, and digital exams. With LMS, students can flexibly earn an online nursing certification to strengthen their competence in a specific discipline and widen their career opportunities.

Wisconsin is also a member of State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA), a body that oversees the delivery of online education in its participating states. Wisconsin students reap the benefits of improved access to inexpensive, top-quality academic offerings in member states and vice versa.

Online Nursing Programs in Wisconsin for 2025

Check out some of the best online nursing programs in Wisconsin in this section. Research.com inspected schools that offer a variety of nursing degrees, from online associate programs to graduate levels. The growing interest in online nursing degrees results from their versatility, allowing aspirants to balance their educational endeavors with other life responsibilities.

1. University of Wisconsin-Madison RN to BSN program

University of Wisconsin-Madison has one of the best nursing programs in Wisconsin. It offers an RN to BSN program that students can finish in 18 months or two years or longer if they want. The school also offers many certificates in areas like school nursing, nurse educator, and psychiatric mental health. While many of these are 100% online, on-campus practicums could be mandated for specific certificates.

1. Program Length: 18 months
2. Cost per Credit: $452
3. Required Credits to Graduate: 24 to 30
4. Accreditation: HLC

2. Herzing University-Madison RN to BSN program

Herzing University-Madison offers online BSN and master- and doctorate-level nursing degrees for RNs wanting to forge a new career route. Interested applicants with 18 or more transferable credits will be evaluated on their cumulative GPA. The high school GPA may also be used.

1. Program Length: 20-36 months
2. Cost per Credit: $715
3. Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
4. Accreditation: HLC

3. Rasmussen University-Wisconsin RN to BSN program

For those who are already licensed as a practical or RN, Rasmussen University-Wisconsin has an online RN to BSN offering. The program focuses on evidence-based practice while helping students develop leadership skills. The university also offers an online MSN-NP degree and an online DNP.

1. Program Length: Varies
2. Cost per Credit: $335
3. Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
4. Accreditation: HLC

4. University of Wisconsin-Extended Campus RN to BSN program

University of Wisconsin-Extended Campus offers an RN to BSN through its online program that lets professional nurses enroll in self-paced classes and select which month to begin their asynchronous online course. This evidence-focused program focuses on enhancing patient results and ensures that RNs attain the additional education they need to progress in their careers.

1. Program Length: Varies
2. Tuition: $1,125-$2,250
3. Required Credits to Graduate: 124
4. Accreditation: HLC

5. Viterbo University BSN Completion Program

Viterbo University is recognized as one of the best nursing schools in Wisconsin. It has been offering RN to BSN degrees for more than 25 years, producing a plethora of BSN-equipped nurses than any nursing school in the state. It is known for its convenience in scheduling and flexibility, plus ease of credit transferring.

1. Program Length: 12 to 18 months
2. Estimated Cost: $365
3. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
4. Accreditation: CCNE

Is Wisconsin good for nurses?

Wisconsin is a place that makes nursing degree a worthwhile pursuit. The state ranks 13th in the US for RNs per capita, with 1.93 active RN licenses per 100 residents (Gooch & Plescia, 2022). It is also one of the metropolitan areas with the highest employment level for RNs, alongside Illinois and Indiana (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023a).

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023b) reports that Wisconsin registered nurses earn a yearly mean wage of $85,260. While this is quite lower than the national average, which is $89,010, the cost of living in the state is also lower than the national average. In particular, housing costs and food prices are on the lower end of the spectrum compared to other states (Best Places, n.d.).

And if you work in urban areas, your salary may be higher at $80,000, higher than the national average. You may receive a higher-than-average income if you get employed in a bigger Wisconsin city.

Other factors that make this place good for nurses are as follows:

1. Travel opportunities. Wisconsin’s travel nursing opportunities are consistent as its hospitals hire nurses from other states. Major hospitals in Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Madison all hire nurses frequently.
2. Job security. Nursing schools in Wisconsin are among the most equipped in the U.S. to face the nurse shortage. While other states are still figuring out what to do, the state has already made impressive developments. Campus-based nursing schools also offer more nursing degree options for new and experienced RNs.
3. Comprehensive career mobility. Wisconsin hospitals offer challenging yet dynamic practices you cannot find anywhere else. Many medical facilities here serve all types of patients, offering nurses comprehensive career mobility in a learning-focused environment. Jobs that are equally rewarding as these are also present in smaller territories, even in rural areas.
4. eNLC membership. Wisconsin is part of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC). This means that nurses in the state can work in most other U.S. states and vice versa.
5. Better benefits. Long-term care sector employees are entitled to many benefits. The latest Wisconsin Center for Nursing Long-Term Care Workforce Crisis report found that 69.1% of respondents offered their full-time employees health insurance, while 12.7% could offer the same to their part-time employees.
6. Strong economy. Wisconsin maintains one of the strongest economies in the country, thanks to its agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. Also, according to the latest report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (n.d.), the state only has a 2.5% unemployment rate.
7. Superior medical care. Wisconsin provides extensive, quality health care to its residents, making it one of the healthiest states in the U.S. Its superior medical care system is an outcome of its substantial experience in healthcare advancements and science. To this day, it still performs numerous breakthroughs in the field.
8. Community offerings. Wisconsin has lower-than-average crime rates. It also boasts all-inclusive community services to guarantee its residents can access a supportive and safe community.

What can I do with a nursing degree in Wisconsin?

The growing population of baby boomers has also caused a surge in nursing jobs at different levels and in many rural and urban Wisconsin areas. Much of the demand for graduates of online nursing programs in Wisconsin is the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the prevalence of telemedicine options. On top of that, nursing practitioner jobs here offer new types of jobs in acute care, gerontology, primary care, pediatric, and women’s health.

In addition, Wisconsin nursing jobs are expanding outside of hospitals. Nurses are now sought-after at home healthcare agencies, nursing homes, educational institutions, and community health organizations.

With a nursing degree, you can start a stable RN career in Wisconsin. Nationwide, 203,200 RNs will be needed by the next coming years. The clamor for health care services will grow because of the increasing number of the older population, who commonly have more medical issues than the younger ones. RNs will also be scouted to inform and care for patients with chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022a).

Graduates with nursing degrees can also pursue specialized Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees in person or MSN online programs to become advanced practice registered nurses or APRNs, nurse anesthetists, or nurse midwives. APRNs perform many similar services as physicians, and they’re likely to find lucrative employment in clinics, hospitals, physician offices, and other ambulatory care environments. At least 30,200 nurse practitioner positions are expected to be vacant each year due to the growing needs of an aging population and the increased need for preventive health care (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022b).

What’s more, states have been introducing legislation removing barriers to APRN practice. Once enacted, these new laws will allow APRNs to conduct more services and be recognized more widely for providing primary health care.

What accelerated pathways are available for non-nurses to enter the nursing field in Wisconsin?

For individuals without a nursing background, Wisconsin offers accelerated nursing pathways that provide a fast track to a rewarding healthcare career. Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs are designed for those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These programs typically take 12 to 24 months to complete, allowing students to earn their BSN in a shorter time frame than traditional programs.

Another popular option is direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs, which allow non-nurses to pivot directly into advanced practice roles. These programs often combine foundational nursing education with graduate-level coursework, preparing students for careers as nurse practitioners, nurse administrators, or educators.

For those seeking flexible learning, online RN programs for non-nurses offer a convenient alternative. These programs blend virtual coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, making it easier to balance studies with personal commitments. Learn more about these online options and how they cater to aspiring nurses by exploring our detailed guide to online RN programs for non-nurses.

With these pathways, non-nurses in Wisconsin can join the healthcare workforce efficiently, meeting the state's high demand for qualified nursing professionals.

How can you choose the best online nursing program in Wisconsin?

Selecting the right online nursing program in Wisconsin is essential for your education and career success. Start by verifying that the program is accredited by recognized organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures that the program meets high academic and professional standards, which is critical for licensure and employment opportunities.

Consider the flexibility of the program’s schedule, especially if you are balancing work or family commitments. Many online nursing programs offer asynchronous learning, allowing students to study at their own pace. Additionally, investigate the program’s clinical placement support. Since nursing requires hands-on training, ensuring the program helps coordinate placements at healthcare facilities near you is vital.

For those aiming for advanced roles, such as nurse practitioners, look for programs that provide a clear pathway to further education. Programs like the nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin offer specialized tracks to help students advance in their careers.

Lastly, review the program’s NCLEX pass rates and graduate success stories. A program with strong outcomes is a good indicator of its quality and effectiveness. By evaluating these factors, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and ensures you’re set up for success in Wisconsin’s healthcare field.

What professional networking opportunities are available through Wisconsin’s online nursing programs?

Wisconsin’s online nursing programs offer a range of networking opportunities designed to support career growth and connections within the healthcare community. Leveraging these resources can be instrumental for students aiming to advance their careers and expand their professional networks.

• Virtual Networking Events: Many programs host online networking events, including career fairs, webinars, and alumni panels. These events provide students with a platform to connect with industry leaders, hiring managers, and experienced nurses from a variety of specializations. These interactions offer insights into career paths and often result in valuable professional contacts.
• Mentorship Programs: Some institutions in Wisconsin offer mentorship programs that connect nursing students with experienced professionals in their field. Through one-on-one mentorship, students receive guidance on career development, clinical skills, and job market trends, while mentors often help with goal setting and advice on transitioning to advanced nursing roles.
• Alumni Networks: Many nursing programs maintain strong alumni associations, which serve as excellent resources for current students. Alumni often participate in events, share job opportunities, and provide industry insights, making these networks valuable for job placement and professional development.
• Clinical Partnerships with Local Healthcare Facilities: Although courses are online, Wisconsin’s nursing programs often partner with local healthcare facilities to offer clinical experiences and connect students with healthcare professionals. Clinical rotations and site visits allow students to establish in-person connections, potentially leading to job offers upon graduation.
• Professional Associations and Conferences: Schools often encourage students to join professional nursing associations, such as the Wisconsin Nurses Association (WNA) or the American Nurses Association (ANA). Many associations host annual conferences, workshops, and regional events, where students can network with a broad range of professionals in nursing and healthcare.

What are the current licensing requirements for nurses in Wisconsin?

Candidates seeking a nursing license in Wisconsin must fulfill state-mandated educational and procedural criteria. Applicants must complete a state-approved nursing program and provide verified documentation of clinical training hours, as well as pass the NCLEX examination. In addition, comprehensive background checks, fingerprint submissions, and fee payments are required to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Detailed and up-to-date information regarding these processes is available in the nursing license requirements in Wisconsin, which outlines the current statutory and procedural obligations for licensure.

What are the career prospects for advanced practice nurses in Wisconsin?

As healthcare needs continue to grow in Wisconsin, APRNs are increasingly sought after, especially in rural and underserved areas. With competitive salaries, career flexibility, and increased autonomy, APRNs have a promising future in the state’s healthcare landscape.

• Growing demand for advanced roles: Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), including Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), are in high demand in Wisconsin, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
• Competitive salaries: APRNs in Wisconsin typically earn higher salaries than registered nurses, with Nurse Practitioners earning an average annual salary of $120,000 or more. Nurse Anesthetists tend to earn even higher, with salaries reaching over $150,000 in some cases.
• Variety of specialties: APRNs can specialize in several fields, such as family practice, psychiatric nursing, pediatrics, and anesthesiology, allowing for career flexibility and personal fulfillment.
• Increased independence: In Wisconsin, APRNs have a significant degree of autonomy in patient care, especially those in family and psychiatric nursing. This autonomy provides a more dynamic role in healthcare delivery.
• Opportunities in healthcare settings: Advanced practice nurses in Wisconsin find opportunities in hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, and specialty care centers. This diversity of employment settings means greater job security and mobility.
• Linking education to career success: To enter advanced practice roles, aspiring nurses often pursue advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).  Explore the most affordable PMHNP programs for further specialization in psychiatric care and mental health.

By pursuing advanced practice roles, nurses can significantly enhance their career trajectory and contribute to the evolving healthcare needs in Wisconsin.

Can supplementary allied health certifications boost my nursing career in Wisconsin?

Online nursing programs in Wisconsin can be further enhanced by pursuing supplementary allied health certifications to diversify clinical competencies and improve interdisciplinary collaboration. Supplementary credentials provide exposure to broader patient care practices and can refine skills in areas such as communication, clinical reasoning, and patient coordination. For instance, enrolling in medical assistant programs in Wisconsin offers practical insights that complement nursing education by focusing on essential supportive care techniques. Such cross-training advances a well-rounded healthcare profile, meeting the evolving demands of the sector while opening additional career pathways.

How are clinical skills developed in Wisconsin's online nursing programs?

Wisconsin’s online nursing programs incorporate advanced simulation technology along with coordinated clinical rotations to ensure students gain vital hands-on experience. These programs partner with local healthcare facilities to arrange supervised practicum opportunities that complement virtual learning and reinforce critical patient care skills. Innovative simulation labs provide realistic clinical scenarios, allowing students to practice decision-making and technical procedures in a controlled environment. For detailed career pathways and preparation steps, refer to how to become an RN in Wisconsin.

What are the employment outcomes and return on investment for Wisconsin's online nursing graduates?

Recent data indicate that graduates from online nursing programs in Wisconsin typically secure positions with competitive starting salaries and strong career advancement opportunities. Employment rates and post-graduation success metrics are frequently benchmarked by state healthcare agencies and emphasize the importance of completing a program that meets rigorous industry standards. Several programs report high placement rates within critical care, primary health, and specialty roles. Additionally, many programs partner with local healthcare providers to align training with current workforce demands, thereby ensuring a positive return on investment. For prospective students seeking detailed statistical comparisons and program quality evaluations, exploring the list of accredited nursing schools in Wisconsin can provide further insights.

What challenges do online nursing students in Wisconsin encounter and how can they overcome them?

Online nursing programs present unique challenges, including adapting to asynchronous coursework, coordinating clinical placements, and effectively managing digital learning platforms. Institutions mitigate these issues by providing dedicated technical support, structured mentorship initiatives, and flexible scheduling designed to accommodate both virtual classes and hands-on clinical experiences. Learners are encouraged to leverage academic resources, engage in virtual study groups, and adopt robust time-management strategies to ensure academic success. For individuals exploring alternative foundational pathways, detailed guidance is available on how to become an LVN nurse in Wisconsin.

How do LPN to RN online programs facilitate career transition in Wisconsin?

A focused pathway exists for licensed practical nurses aiming to advance their credentials through bridging programs. These online courses rigorously integrate advanced theory with clinical practice, reducing the time required to achieve RN licensure while accommodating professional schedules. They offer flexible delivery methods combined with coordinated clinical placements, ensuring that students meet state requirements and exam standards. Accredited offerings provide a streamlined, cost-effective transition that empowers LPNs to broaden their career opportunities. Explore the benefits of enrolling in LPN to RN online programs for expedited professional growth.

Can alternative healthcare career paths complement my nursing practice in Wisconsin?

Exploring roles beyond direct patient care broadens your professional portfolio and creates additional avenues for career advancement. Some health professionals integrate complementary positions—such as healthcare administration and medical billing and coding—to diversify their expertise and enhance job flexibility. These alternative paths offer opportunities to leverage existing clinical knowledge in supportive and managerial capacities while meeting industry demands. For those interested in diversifying their skills, consider exploring our article on how to become a medical biller and coder in Wisconsin.

How can I specialize as a nurse midwife in Wisconsin?

Nurse midwives in Wisconsin play a pivotal role in providing comprehensive reproductive and perinatal care. Graduates aiming for this specialization typically pursue a graduate-level program that integrates rigorous clinical placements with focused coursework in maternal and newborn health. These programs are designed to build expertise in managing prenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care while ensuring adherence to state-specific licensure requirements. Prospective applicants must verify that their chosen program is accredited and meets the advanced practice criteria established by Wisconsin’s regulatory bodies. For a detailed guide on program prerequisites, curriculum structure, and state licensure processes, please refer to our article on how to become a nurse midwife in Wisconsin.

Can direct entry MSN programs accelerate advanced career pathways in Wisconsin?

Direct entry MSN programs are designed for graduates holding non-nursing bachelor’s degrees who aim to transition directly into advanced nursing roles. These programs integrate intensive foundational nursing education with graduate-level coursework to prepare students for responsibilities in healthcare leadership, advanced practice, and education. Many Wisconsin institutions align their curricula with state licensure requirements and industry standards, ensuring rigorous clinical training through simulations and supervised placements. For further tailored options and program comparisons, review the best direct entry MSN programs.

How can I become a nurse practitioner in Wisconsin?

For nurses aiming to advance to the nurse practitioner role, specialized programs in Wisconsin offer a focused curriculum that integrates rigorous clinical training with advanced theoretical coursework. Prospective candidates must meet established prerequisites, including valid RN licensure and completion of an accredited nursing program, before enrolling in advanced practice courses. Applicants should verify state-specific licensure standards and program accreditation, as these factors are pivotal for ensuring a seamless transition into advanced practice. For comprehensive details on entrance criteria, curriculum expectations, and subsequent certification processes, refer to our guide on how to become a nurse practitioner in Wisconsin.

Getting an Online Nursing Degree in Wisconsin

The healthcare industry continues to evolve, as do the requirements for nurses. However, achieving the missions laid out in the nursing sector mandates nurses to pursue higher education. An ADN can prepare one with the fundamental skills, but a BSN will present all the pertinent tools that are essential to meeting whatever challenges may arise in the field.

As a place that can usually weigh compellingly on education, Wisconsin is a good state to earn a degree in nursing, be it traditionally or online. But nursing degrees online, such as online LPN programs Wisconsin schools offer, are more fitting for those with busy schedules and tight budgets. Besides, online nursing programs in Wisconsin have expert instructors and coursework as relevant as their on-campus counterparts, which means that students can expect the same level of academic quality.

Key Insights

• High Demand for Nurses: Wisconsin has a robust nursing workforce with 67,900 registered nurses as of 2022. The demand for nurses is expected to continue through 2040, ensuring job security and opportunities for growth in the field.
• Diverse Nursing Career Paths: Graduates from Wisconsin nursing schools can pursue various career paths, including becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or registered nurse (RN). Advanced roles such as nurse practitioners (NPs) and nurse anesthetists are also viable options with further education.
• Cost-Efficient Education: Online nursing programs in Wisconsin offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional on-campus programs. The typical cost for online courses can be as low as $335 per credit, and students can benefit from tuition reciprocity programs with neighboring states.
• Flexible Learning Options: The state's nursing schools provide a range of online programs, including RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. These programs cater to working professionals, offering flexibility to balance education with other responsibilities.
• Supportive State Policies: Wisconsin is a member of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC), allowing nurses to practice in other compact states without additional licensure. The state also supports nursing students through various financial aid and scholarship programs.
• Strong Economic and Community Support: Wisconsin boasts a strong economy, low unemployment rates, and comprehensive healthcare services. The state provides a supportive environment for nurses with extensive career mobility, superior medical care, and community resources.

FAQ

What are the steps to become a nurse in Wisconsin?

To become a nurse in Wisconsin, you must first obtain an accredited associate degree in nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or complete an LPN program. Afterward, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Additionally, you need to submit fingerprints for a background check and complete an application for licensure with the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services Nursing Board.

How much does an online nursing program cost in Wisconsin?

The cost of online nursing programs in Wisconsin varies. On average, tuition for a public, four-year, in-state college is around $17,875 per year. Online programs can be more affordable, with some costing as low as $335 per credit. Tuition reciprocity programs and financial aid options can further reduce the cost for students from neighboring states.

How long does it take to complete a nursing degree in Wisconsin?

The duration of a nursing degree in Wisconsin depends on the level of education pursued. An ADN typically takes two years, while a BSN takes about four years. RN to BSN programs can be completed in one to two years. Advanced degrees like MSN or DNP programs may take an additional two to four years.

Can I become a nurse in Wisconsin with an online degree?

Yes, you can become a nurse in Wisconsin with an online degree. Many accredited institutions in the state offer online nursing programs, including ADN, BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. These programs provide the same level of education and preparation for licensure exams as traditional on-campus programs.

What are the best online nursing programs in Wisconsin?

Some of the best online nursing programs in Wisconsin include the RN to BSN programs at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Herzing University-Madison, Rasmussen University-Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin-Extended Campus, and Viterbo University. These programs are recognized for their flexibility, affordability, and quality education.

Is Wisconsin a good place for nurses to work?

Wisconsin is an excellent place for nurses to work, offering competitive salaries, job security, and a supportive healthcare environment. The state has a high employment level for RNs and provides travel nursing opportunities, comprehensive career mobility, and superior medical care. Additionally, Wisconsin's membership in the eNLC allows nurses to work in other compact states.

What career opportunities are available for nurses in Wisconsin?

Nurses in Wisconsin can pursue various career opportunities in hospitals, home healthcare agencies, nursing homes, educational institutions, and community health organizations. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives can also find lucrative positions in clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.

What are the benefits of pursuing an online nursing degree in Wisconsin?

Pursuing an online nursing degree in Wisconsin offers flexibility, affordability, and access to quality education. Online programs allow students to balance their studies with work and personal responsibilities. The state's strong support for online education and various financial aid options make it easier for students to pursue their nursing degrees.

How does the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) benefit Wisconsin nurses?

The Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) allows Wisconsin nurses to practice in other compact states without needing additional licensure. This flexibility opens up more job opportunities and allows nurses to work in different healthcare settings across state lines.

What support services are available for nursing students in Wisconsin?

Nursing students in Wisconsin can access various support services, including academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and scholarships. Many institutions also offer online resources, such as virtual libraries, tutoring, and technical support, to help students succeed in their programs.

What unique research opportunities are available for nursing students at Wisconsin's nursing schools?

Nursing students at Wisconsin's nursing schools have access to unique research opportunities that enhance their academic and professional development. Many programs collaborate with renowned research institutions and healthcare organizations, offering students the chance to engage in cutting-edge studies on topics such as public health, clinical practices, and healthcare innovations. Students can participate in faculty-led research projects, contributing to advancements in nursing science and patient care. Additionally, schools often provide resources for independent research, including access to state-of-the-art laboratories and funding for research initiatives. These opportunities allow nursing students to develop critical thinking skills, gain valuable research experience, and contribute to the nursing field's body of knowledge.

References:

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5. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023a). May 2022 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates. BLS.
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