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Key Takeaways
Epic Systems in Verona drives much of Wisconsin's CS hiring, Madison-area salaries average $113,696, with Milwaukee at $108,528
Northwestern Mutual, Rockwell Automation, Johnson Controls, and Kohl's add further demand in Milwaukee
Hakia Research 2026
UW-Madison ranks #1 (score 85.4) with an 83% graduation rate at $9,644/yr, a nationally ranked CS program at public-school prices
The UW System offers 10+ CS programs across the state, with most public campuses charging $6,600-$9,600/yr in-state
Wisconsin CS graduates earn a $103,360 median salary, roughly matching the national average
Lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs means stronger purchasing power at comparable salaries
UW-La Crosse (score 77.3, 92% grad rate, $7,974/yr) and UW-Platteville (score 70.1, 99% grad rate, $6,827/yr) are standout value picks
UW-Parkside offers the lowest public tuition at $6,582/yr for students in the Kenosha-Racine area
25 accredited programs include 6 master's and 2 doctoral options, though no associate's programs appear in IPEDS data
UW-Stout holds a CAE-CDE cybersecurity designation for students interested in security specializations
Updated June 26, 2026
How we ranked Wisconsin Computer Science programs
We rank 33 accredited computer science programs in Wisconsin using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Wisconsin
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Wisconsin by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 25 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 13 public and 12 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Wisconsin-Madison, U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, U of Wisconsin-La Crosse, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Wisconsin computer science programs earn a median salary of $87,856, 11% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Madison, Milwaukee metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,582 to $58,042 annually, with an average of $24,149/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Wisconsin's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Wisconsin, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Show all 13 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Saint Norbert College | De Pere, WI | Private nonprofit | $44,620 | 71% | 71.1 |
| #7 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | River Falls, WI | Public | $7,121 | 57% | 70.1 |
| #8 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $8,772 | 49% | 69.2 |
| #9 | Wisconsin Lutheran College | Milwaukee, WI | Private nonprofit | $35,550 | 64% | 69.1 |
| #10 | University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | Green Bay, WI | Public | $7,125 | 48% | 68.1 |
| #11 | University of Wisconsin-Platteville | Platteville, WI | Public | $7,126 | 56% | 67.6 |
| #12 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $7,061 | 46% | 65.8 |
| #13 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | Stevens Point, WI | Public | $7,378 | 51% | 65.3 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 6 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Wisconsin-Madison, U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, U of Wisconsin-Whitewater, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $103,360, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Madison, Milwaukee creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $14,461/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Wisconsin's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
University of Wisconsin-River Falls
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin is home to 2 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Wisconsin PhD holders earning a median of $129,200, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Madison, Milwaukee region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Wisconsin programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Wisconsin, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Wisconsin
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $24,149/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $60,373/year |
| Community college tuition | $6,037/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $144,896 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $36,224 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Wisconsin
State Aid Programs
Wisconsin residents pursuing computer science degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The Wisconsin Grant program provides need-based grants specifically for Wisconsin residents attending University of Wisconsin System institutions, making it a cornerstone of state-level aid. Beyond state programs, students can access federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at StudentAid.gov, which opens doors to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The University of Wisconsin System website at wisconsin.edu provides comprehensive details on both state and federal aid options available to enrolled students.
Key Programs & Amounts
Most Wisconsin institutions offering computer science programs also provide institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages. Students should research both need-based and merit-based opportunities at their target schools, as these can significantly reduce overall cost of attendance. For detailed information about specific aid eligibility and application procedures, prospective students should visit StudentAid.gov to understand federal aid requirements and visit individual institution financial aid offices. Many Wisconsin computer science programs, particularly those in the UW System, combine state grants with federal aid to create affordable pathways for talented students regardless of financial background.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Wisconsin
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Wisconsin. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Wisconsin metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Madison | $114K |
| Milwaukee | $109K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Wisconsin
Find computer science jobs in Wisconsin. These major employers across Wisconsin metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Madison
WIComputer Science Jobs in Milwaukee
WITransfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Wisconsin
State Transfer System
Wisconsin provides seamless transfer pathways for computer science students through the Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA), a statewide initiative guaranteeing that general education credits transfer within the University of Wisconsin System (UCTA). Students beginning at 1 two-year institution offering computer science can complete foundational coursework and transfer with full credit recognition to Wisconsin's 28 four-year bachelor's-granting universities. This pathway significantly reduces time-to-degree and total education costs, making advanced degrees more accessible. Community college students benefit from structured articulation agreements that align associate's degree requirements with bachelor's degree prerequisites at receiving institutions.
How Transfers Work
Wisconsin's comprehensive transfer system supports approximately 21 two-year institutions across the state, though only 1 currently offers formal computer science associate's programs (IPEDS). Students at other community colleges can still transfer general education credits and complete lower-level computer science coursework through articulation agreements. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, with 156 bachelor's completions, and University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, with 57 completions, actively recruit transfer students. The Wisconsin Grant provides continued need-based financial aid for transfer students attending UW System institutions (Wisconsin Grant). Students should verify transfer agreements through individual institution registrar offices and the University of Wisconsin System website. Additional pathways exist through related programs like Data Science and Software Engineering, offering flexible entry points for career switchers and returning adults seeking computer science expertise.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Wisconsin?
Industry & Workforce
Wisconsin offers a strong computer science education landscape with 39 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state produced 1,291 bachelor's degree completions in computer science during 2023, demonstrating strong enrollment and completion rates. Major tech hubs including Milwaukee, Madison, and the Fox Valley region provide abundant internship and employment opportunities with leading employers such as Epic Systems, Northwestern Mutual, Advocate Aurora Health, and Kohl's. Students benefit from proximity to these innovation centers while maintaining access to affordable public education through the University of Wisconsin System.
Salary Outlook
The financial advantage of studying computer science in Wisconsin is significant. Public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of $7,030, compared to $15,234 for out-of-state students (IPEDS). University of Wisconsin-Madison, ranked among the national best bachelor's programs, offers tuition of $9,644 with exceptional graduate outcomes. For budget-conscious students, institutions like University of Wisconsin-Whitewater charge just $6,812 annually while maintaining a 91.8% graduation rate. Wisconsin's comprehensive support systems, including the Wisconsin Grant for need-based financial aid through the University of Wisconsin System, further enhance accessibility. Students exploring specialized tracks should consider related Wisconsin programs in Software Engineering, Data Science, and Cybersecurity to broaden their career prospects.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Wisconsin
Employment Outlook
Wisconsin's computer science job market is strong and growing, supported by a strong educational pipeline and diverse employer base across the state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Wisconsin continues to develop its technology sector with significant opportunities in major metropolitan areas including Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Madison, and Green Bay. The state's 39 institutions offering computer science programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels produce a steady stream of qualified graduates, with 1,291 bachelor's degree completions annually as of 2023. This educational capacity ensures a well-trained workforce ready to meet employer demand across Wisconsin's diverse economic landscape.
Salaries by Metro
The University of Wisconsin System serves as a cornerstone of Wisconsin's computer science education ecosystem, with Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA) enabling seamless credit transfer across institutions. Top programs like the University of Wisconsin-Madison lead the state with 851 completions, while UW-Milwaukee contributes 156 completions annually. Students have access to federal financial aid through Federal Student Aid and Wisconsin-specific support via the Wisconsin Grant program, which provides need-based grants for Wisconsin residents. For more context on national trends, explore best computer science bachelor's programs nationally and most affordable programs nationwide to understand how Wisconsin's offerings compare regionally.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Wisconsin
Online Programs
0 available in Wisconsin
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 42
- Median Tuition
- $12,800
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $34,200
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- 78
- Median Tuition
- $31,000
- Total Programs
- 61
- Median Tuition
- $16,400
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Computer Science Degree Programs in Wisconsin: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Wisconsin?
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What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Wisconsin?
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Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Wisconsin salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.