Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Programs in Wisconsin 2025
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
87 artificial intelligence graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
Milwaukee School of Engineering
37 artificial intelligence graduates annually, 77% graduation rate
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
31 artificial intelligence graduates annually, 79% graduation rate
- 1.Wisconsin offers 17+ accredited artificial intelligence programs across public and private universities
- 2.University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee leads with 97% graduation rate
- 3.Wisconsin software developers earn median $103,360 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Madison, Milwaukee
- 5.Cost of living index: 95.2% of US average (below average)
Artificial Intelligence Education in Wisconsin: Overview
Wisconsin offers 17 accredited artificial intelligence programs, producing approximately 265 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Madison, Milwaukee, with major employers including Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
With a median software developer salary of $103,360 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 95.2% compared to the US average, Wisconsin offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets.
The top artificial intelligence programs in the state are led by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 17 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Artificial Intelligence degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Wisconsin-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Wisconsin Artificial Intelligence Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $8,455 | 97% | 77 |
| 2 | Milwaukee School of Engineering | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $46,385 | 77% | 62.6 |
| 3 | University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | Green Bay, WI | Public | $6,767 | 79% | 55.8 |
| 4 | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Whitewater, WI | Public | $6,812 | 92% | 51.6 |
| 5 | Wisconsin Lutheran College | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $34,520 | 93% | 49.4 |
| 6 | University of Wisconsin-Platteville | Platteville, WI | Public | $6,827 | 99% | 49.3 |
| 7 | Concordia University-Wisconsin | Mequon, WI | Private | $33,750 | — | 47.5 |
| 8 | Beloit College | Beloit, WI | Private | $58,042 | — | 46.9 |
| 9 | Carroll University | Waukesha, WI | Private | $36,400 | — | 46.1 |
| 10 | University of Wisconsin-Stout | Menomonie, WI | Public | $7,330 | — | 45.7 |
| 11 | Lawrence University | Appleton, WI | Private | $55,149 | — | 45.1 |
| 12 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | Stevens Point, WI | Public | $7,112 | 86% | 44.6 |
| 13 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $6,806 | 89% | 42.5 |
| 14 | Saint Norbert College | De Pere, WI | Private | $43,532 | — | 38.2 |
| 15 | Marquette University | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $47,690 | — | 36.3 |
| 16 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | River Falls, WI | Public | $6,837 | — | 35.2 |
| 17 | Ripon College | Ripon, WI | Private | $50,400 | — | 34.8 |
Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Programs in Wisconsin: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee School of... | U of Wisconsin-Green Bay | U of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Wisconsin Lutheran College |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,455 | $46,385 | $6,767 | $6,812 | $34,520 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 77% | 79% | 92% | 93% |
| Annual Graduates | 87 | 37 | 31 | 10 | 5 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88% | 60% | 88% | 83% | 79% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 77.0/100 | 62.6/100 | 55.8/100 | 51.6/100 | 49.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Artificial Intelligence in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers 15 bachelor's-level artificial intelligence programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,352 in the Wisconsin market.
A bachelor's in artificial intelligence typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs in Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 87 | 77.0 |
| #2 Milwaukee School of... | $46,385 | 77% | 37 | 62.6 |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-Green Bay | $6,767 | 79% | 31 | 55.8 |
Top Artificial Intelligence Schools for Master's Degrees in Wisconsin
For graduate study, Wisconsin offers 3 master's-level artificial intelligence programs. Leading institutions include University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-River Falls. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Wisconsin reaching $134,368 or more.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Master's Programs in Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 69 | 73.3 |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Whitewater | $6,812 | 92% | 10 | 51.6 |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-River Falls | $6,837 | N/A% | 2 | 35.2 |
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Colleges in Wisconsin
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable artificial intelligence programs in Wisconsin are at University of Wisconsin-Green Bay ($6,767/year), University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh ($6,806/year), University of Wisconsin-Whitewater ($6,812/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Wisconsin's competitive tech salaries.
At University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, a 4-year degree costs approximately $27,068 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $72,352, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years. See our Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs in Wisconsin (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Green Bay | $6,767 | $27,068 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | $6,806 | $27,224 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-Whitewater | $6,812 | $27,248 | 0.7 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Schools in Wisconsin
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 artificial intelligence programs in Wisconsin, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,455 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 87 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 77.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 87 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 77.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (87 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UWM offers a comprehensive 15-credit Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through the Department of Computer Science, requiring core courses in AI, machine learning, and programming with flexible elective options. The program allows up to 90% of credits to double count toward a graduate degree and accepts students from diverse academic backgrounds including science, engineering, economics, and finance.
Admission Prerequisites
- •academic preparation in math and programming
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.75
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 15 credits
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee, WI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $46,385 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 77% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 37 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 62.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 77% graduation rate
- 37 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 62.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (77%), program size (37 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (60% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
MSOE offers AI-focused courses in Computer Science and Accounting programs with machine learning emphasis, while UWM provides strong industry partnerships including Microsoft CEO alumnus Satya Nadella and comprehensive AI/ML graduate certificate options. Both institutions emphasize hands-on experience with strong career placement rates and dedicated career services.
Available Scholarships
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $76,000
- Job Placement: 88% of graduates launch their careers or continue their education within six months of graduation
- Top Employers: Harley-Davidson
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,767 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 79% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 31 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 55.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 79% graduation rate
- 31 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 55.8 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (79%), program size (31 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UW-Green Bay offers a focused Computer Science program with an Artificial Intelligence emphasis that includes specialized courses in machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing, requiring students to complete a capstone project.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 202 Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
- •MATH 260 Introductory Statistics
- •MATH 320 Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory
Program Details
- Credits: 84 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,812 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 10 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 51.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 10 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 51.6 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (10 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (83% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Milwaukee, WI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $34,520 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 5 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 79%
- • Ranking Score: 49.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 5 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 49.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (5 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (79% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
WLC offers small class sizes with no TAs and personal relationships with professors, plus 24/7 access to a Makerspace with advanced equipment. Students gain hands-on experience in multiple programming languages while exploring cutting-edge areas like AI, robotics, and gaming.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •four years of mathematics (including one-and-a-half years of algebra, one year of geometry, and one-half year of trigonometry)
- •four years of natural science (including biology, chemistry, and physics)
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Metavante, Milliman, Thrivent, Kohl's, Northwestern Mutual, Generac, Johnson Controls, Acuity
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Machine Learning Scientist
SOC 15-2051Machine Learning Scientist opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
AI Research Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI Research Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
NLP Engineer
SOC 15-1299NLP Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Computer Vision Engineer
SOC 15-1299Computer Vision Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Madison, Milwaukee
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (95.2% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Epic Systems or Rockwell Automation
- You prefer Wisconsin's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Wisconsin's 17)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Wisconsin
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Explore information technology programs in Wisconsin
Artificial Intelligence Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Artificial Intelligence in Wisconsin FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Wisconsin salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
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