Top 3 Computer Programming Programs in Wisconsin 2025
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
87 computer programming graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
Milwaukee School of Engineering
37 computer programming graduates annually, 77% graduation rate
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
31 computer programming graduates annually, 79% graduation rate
- 1.Wisconsin offers 17+ accredited computer programming 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)
Computer Programming Education in Wisconsin: Overview
Wisconsin offers 17 accredited computer programming programs, producing approximately 228 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 computer programming 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
Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming 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 | Beloit College | Beloit, WI | Private | $58,042 | — | 46.9 |
| 8 | Carroll University | Waukesha, WI | Private | $36,400 | — | 46.1 |
| 9 | Lawrence University | Appleton, WI | Private | $55,149 | — | 45.1 |
| 10 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | Stevens Point, WI | Public | $7,112 | 86% | 44.6 |
| 11 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $6,806 | 89% | 42.5 |
| 12 | Saint Norbert College | De Pere, WI | Private | $43,532 | — | 38.2 |
| 13 | Concordia University-Wisconsin | Mequon, WI | Private | $33,750 | — | 36.6 |
| 14 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | River Falls, WI | Public | $6,837 | — | 35.2 |
| 15 | Ripon College | Ripon, WI | Private | $50,400 | — | 34.8 |
| 16 | Herzing University-Madison | Madison, WI | Private | $12,360 | 39% | 31.2 |
| 17 | Herzing University-Brookfield | Brookfield, WI | Private | $12,360 | 22% | 24.9 |
Top 5 Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers 15 bachelor's-level computer programming 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 computer programming typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming Schools for Master's Degrees in Wisconsin
For graduate study, Wisconsin offers 3 master's-level computer programming 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 Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming Colleges in Wisconsin
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer programming 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 Computer Programming Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming Schools in Wisconsin
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer programming 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)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 87 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 77.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 87 computer programming 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
The Computer Science program is ABET-accredited and offers research opportunities in cutting-edge areas like artificial intelligence, cryptography, and computational robotics. Employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than average for all occupations.
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
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee, WI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $46,385 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 77% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 37 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 62.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 77% graduation rate
- 37 computer programming 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's computer science program provides hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI technology including access to GPU supercomputer Rosie and specialized AI labs, while maintaining strong industry connections through faculty with industry experience and sponsored capstone projects.
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
- Min GPA: 2.8
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $75,532
- Job Placement: 90% of 2023-24 graduates from computer science program are fully employed, enrolled in graduate school or enlisted in a branch of the military after graduation
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,767 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 79% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 31 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 55.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 79% graduation rate
- 31 computer programming 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
The Computer Science program offers two distinct emphases in Cybersecurity and Software Engineering with instruction in advanced areas including neural networks, computer graphics, and cybersecurity. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for entry-level industry positions or graduate studies.
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,812 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 10 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 51.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 10 computer programming 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)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 5 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 79%
- • Ranking Score: 49.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 5 computer programming 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
Students gain hands-on experience in multiple programming languages including C++, C#, Python, JavaScript, and SQL with 24/7 access to a Makerspace and specialized computer labs. The program offers small class sizes with no TAs and provides strong preparation for graduate school or immediate career entry with higher than average starting salaries.
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Metavante, Milliman, Thrivent, Kohl's, Northwestern Mutual, Generac, Johnson Controls, Acuity
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst 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 cybersecurity programs in Wisconsin
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Explore software engineering programs in Wisconsin
Explore computer science programs in Wisconsin
Explore computer engineering programs in Wisconsin
Computer Programming Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Computer Programming 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
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.