Best Nursing Schools in Wisconsin | 2025

Wisconsin's top nursing schools offer comprehensive training, from undergraduate programs like ADN and BSN to advanced graduate degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), preparing students for roles like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, and various other advanced nursing specialties. These programs equip nurses with hands-on experience to address Wisconsin's healthcare needs across urban and rural settings.

Explore our guide to the best nursing schools in Wisconsin, offering insights into educational pathways, reasons to pursue nursing in the state, tips for selecting the right nursing school to advance your career, and salary expectations upon graduation.

Best Nursing Schools in Wisconsin - Online & On-Campus

Why Become a Nurse in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring nurses, making it a top choice for those entering or advancing in the healthcare field. Here's why becoming a nurse in Wisconsin is an excellent decision:

Growing Demand for Nurses: Like many other states, Wisconsin is experiencing a nursing shortage, driving strong demand for nursing professionals. The state is home to a large and aging population, leading to increased healthcare needs. Wisconsin's healthcare systems are actively seeking RNs and NPs to meet this growing demand, particularly in underserved rural areas. Major cities such as Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay also offer numerous opportunities in fast-paced urban healthcare settings.

Efforts to Improve Retention: Wisconsin has been focused on improving working conditions for nurses to reduce burnout and support long-term retention. The Wisconsin Nurses Association and various healthcare systems have introduced wellness initiatives to help address the mental health challenges faced by nurses. Hospitals across the state are offering competitive pay, flexible scheduling options, and mentorship programs to support nurses, especially those in their first few years of practice. Nurse residency programs are helping new nurses transition smoothly into their roles, contributing to better retention rates compared to the national average.

Public Health and Community Involvement: Wisconsin has numerous Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), particularly in rural regions where access to care is limited. Nurses in Wisconsin have the opportunity to make a significant impact on public health by working in underserved communities where their care is most needed. Whether in urban centers or rural clinics, Wisconsin nurses play a crucial role in improving health equity and delivering primary care, mental health services, and preventive care to vulnerable populations.

Career Growth Opportunities: Wisconsin is home to many prestigious nursing programs, including those at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Marquette University, which offer a wide array of advanced nursing degrees. For those looking to advance their careers, Wisconsin provides ample opportunities for nurses to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), or clinical leaders in various healthcare fields. The state also supports continuing education through partnerships between healthcare systems and universities, ensuring that nurses have access to the best training and professional development opportunities.

Wisconsin's combination of high demand, diverse clinical settings, and strong career growth opportunities makes it an excellent state for aspiring nurses.

Steps to Become a Nurse in Wisconsin

Becoming a nurse in Wisconsin involves several key steps, each designed to ensure that you are well-prepared to provide high-quality care to patients. Whether you aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN) or advance your career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), following the right educational and licensure pathways is crucial.

RN Requirements in Wisconsin

1. Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
3. Apply for RN Licensure: Submit an application for RN licensure to the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing (BON). This process typically involves providing your transcripts, proof of passing the NCLEX-RN, and completing a background check. For details specific to Wisconsin, be sure to check the WI BON website.
4. Obtain a Nursing License: Once your application is approved, you will be issued an RN license, allowing you to practice as an RN in Wisconsin.
5. Pursue Continuing Education: In Wisconsin, RNs must complete 24 continuing education (CE) hours every two years for license renewal. It is recommended to review Wisconsin's Board of Nursing website for specific details pertaining to RN license renewal.

APRN Requirements in Wisconsin

1. Obtain and Maintain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in Wisconsin.
2. Earn a Graduate Degree: Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization in an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role — e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife.
3. Gain Clinical Experience: APRN programs require specific clinical hours based on your specialty and degree. All graduate-level nursing programs mandate a minimum of 500 clinical hours post-graduate. The National Task Force Standards for NP Education requires at least 750 hands-on clinical hours for NP graduates, while DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 hours. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing advanced nursing skills.
4. Pass a National Certification Exam: After completing your graduate program, you must pass a national certification exam specific to your APRN role and specialization.
   • American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)
   • National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS)
   • American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
   • American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)
   • National Board of Certification CRNA (NBCRNA)
5. Apply for APRN Licensure: Submit an application for APRN licensure to the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. This may require documentation of your active RN license, advanced nursing degree, APRN certification exam results, and clinical experience. APRN license requirements vary by state, as each state has its own scope of practice regulations for APRNs. Be sure to check Wisconsin's specific guidelines to understand the requirements and scope of practice.
6. Maintain Certification and Licensure: APRNs in Wisconsin must maintain both their national certification and state licensure. National certification must be upheld according to the specific requirements of the certifying body for the APRN specialty. For state licensure renewal, APRNs are also required to complete 24 CE credits. For specific details, contact the WI BON as all APRN license renewals or reinstatements may have specific procedures.

Always verify with the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing, as application requirements may change or include additional steps.

Salary Expectations and Job Outlook for Nurses in Wisconsin

Salary expectations in 2025 are based on geography, experience level, education, type of nursing specialties, and the types of industry that the nurse works in.

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $94,480, with the lowest 10th percentile making $63,720 and the 90th percentile making $132,680 annually. The highest employment levels were nurses in general medicine and surgical hospitals, making an annual $96,830.

RN salary in Wisconsin is slightly lower than the national mean at $87,220

The highest salary states for RNs include:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for APRNs is $129,480, with employment in these roles expected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting strong demand for advanced practice nurses.

In Wisconsin, APRNs can expect to earn around $128,330 annually.

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Wisconsin

Selecting the right nursing program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

For prospective doctorate and master's degree nursing students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program national certification success rates.
• Clinical Training: Diverse, high-quality clinical placements and/or clinical placement support.
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional nursing program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated nursing program might be the better choice.

Importance of Picking an Accredited Nursing School in Wisconsin

Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in Wisconsin is important for several reasons:

• Assurance of Educational Quality: Accredited nursing schools undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure their curriculum, faculty, and clinical training meet high standards. This guarantees that students receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education, equipping them with the skills needed for successful nursing careers.
• Licensing Requirements: Graduation from an accredited program is often necessary to meet state licensure requirements. Without attending an accredited school, students may find it challenging or even impossible to obtain the necessary credentials to practice as a registered nurse.
• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers prioritize hiring graduates from accredited nursing programs because these programs are recognized for maintaining high educational standards. This preference can lead to better job prospects and career advancement opportunities in the nursing field.
• Ease of Credit Transfer: Credits earned at an accredited nursing school are more likely to be recognized and accepted by other institutions. This is particularly important for students who may wish to transfer schools or pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing.
• Professional Credibility: Completing a program at an accredited nursing school adds to a nurse's professional credibility. It demonstrates that their education aligns with national standards, which is essential for advancing in the nursing profession.
• Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for accessing federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Attending an accredited school ensures that students can receive the financial support they need to complete their education.

Given these points, it's important prospective students research whether their choice of nursing school is accredited by a recognized body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it possible to enroll in a BSN program in Wisconsin without patient care experience?

Patient care experience is not always required for direct-entry BSN programs in Wisconsin, but it can strengthen your application. Some undergraduate nursing programs, particularly RN to BSN and accelerated second-degree BSN (ABSN) tracks, may give preference to applicants with prior healthcare experience.

For master's programs and other graduate-level nursing programs, patient care experience is typically a standard prerequisite.

Q: Can out-of-state students enroll in Wisconsin nursing programs?

Out-of-state students can enroll in Wisconsin nursing programs, though they may face higher tuition rates compared to Wisconsin residents. Wisconsin's residency requirements for in-state tuition generally involve living in the state for at least 12 months prior to enrollment.

It is important for students to verify licensure eligibility in the state where they plan to work after graduation, as not all nursing programs automatically qualify graduates for RN or APRN licensure in every state. This information can generally be confirmed on the nursing school's website and through the state Board of Nursing.

Q: Are there online options for completing a bachelor's degree or master's degree in Wisconsin?

Yes, many Wisconsin nursing programs offer online options for non-entry-level students. Some popular online nursing program tracks include:

• RN to BSN (No Clinical)
• RN to MSN
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

These online programs are designed for nurses with clinical experience and often allow students to complete their clinical requirements near their homes. By offering a blend of online coursework and flexible clinical placements, these programs make it easier for working nurses to advance their education without the need for full-time, on-campus attendance.