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Key Takeaways
Best cybersecurity degree programs: U of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Herzing University-Madison, U of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $3,509 to $12,360/year
Fox Valley Technical College offers the most affordable option at $4,386/yr
Cybersecurity degree programs available: 14 associate's, 5 master's in Wisconsin
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
5 online cybersecurity degree programs in Wisconsin
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Wisconsin community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
14 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual, Exact Sciences
Tech hubs in Madison and Milwaukee
Hakia Research 2026
Cybersecurity degree programs near 45+ cities across Wisconsin
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 26, 2026
How we ranked Wisconsin Cybersecurity programs
We rank 25 accredited cybersecurity 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
Cybersecurity Degree Rankings in Wisconsin
Compare the top-ranked Cybersecurity programs in Wisconsin by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Cybersecurity Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 14 accredited associate's degree programs in cybersecurity, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Fox Valley Technical College, Gateway Technical College, Northeast Wisconsin Techn..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Wisconsin offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,852/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $56,848 in Wisconsin.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Wisconsin's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Madison, Milwaukee areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among cybersecurity schools in Wisconsin, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their cybersecurity degrees in Wisconsin.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Show all 12 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Northcentral Technical College | Wausau, WI | Public | $4,485 | 45% | 83.5 |
| #7 | Northwood Technical College | Rice Lake, WI | Public | $4,485 | 56% | 83.0 |
| #8 | Mid-State Technical College | Wisconsin Rapids, WI | Public | $4,339 | 52% | 81.9 |
| #9 | Lakeshore Technical College | Cleveland, WI | Public | $4,485 | 50% | 81.2 |
| #10 | Madison Area Technical College | Madison, WI | Public | $4,485 | 29% | 73.9 |
| #11 | Western Technical College | La Crosse, WI | Public | $4,462 | 34% | 73.7 |
| #12 | Milwaukee Area Technical College | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $4,485 | 25% | 69.9 |
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin ranks among the nation's top destinations for cybersecurity education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Herzing University-Madison, U of Wisconsin-Whitewater, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Wisconsin cybersecurity 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 $6,806 to $12,360 annually, with an average of $9,671/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 59%, with the highest reaching 92%. 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 cybersecurity degrees in Wisconsin, these top-ranked cybersecurity schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Concordia University-Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Best Master's Cybersecurity Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 5 master's degree programs in cybersecurity, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Wisconsin-Whitewater, U of Wisconsin-La Crosse, U of Wisconsin-Platteville, 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 $7,098/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 cybersecurity 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
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $7,061 | 46% | 66.0 |
Cybersecurity Degree Costs & Tuition in Wisconsin
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $6,443/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $16,108/year |
| Community college tuition | $1,611/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $38,660 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $9,664 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Cybersecurity Students in Wisconsin
State Aid Programs
Wisconsin residents pursuing cybersecurity degrees have access to strong financial aid opportunities through both federal and state programs. The Wisconsin Grant program provides need-based grants specifically for Wisconsin residents enrolled at University of Wisconsin System institutions, making higher education more accessible across the state's cybersecurity programs. To begin the financial aid process, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The FAFSA opens October 1st annually and should be submitted as early as possible to maximize aid eligibility.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond grants and federal aid, Wisconsin's University of Wisconsin System institutions often provide institutional scholarships and assistantships for cybersecurity majors, particularly at research-focused campuses. Students should contact individual institutions' financial aid offices to inquire about merit-based scholarships, departmental awards, and employer-sponsored tuition assistance programs. The College Scorecard allows prospective students to compare net price calculators across Wisconsin's cybersecurity programs and view average aid packages. For detailed information about Wisconsin's grant program, visit the Wisconsin Grant page. Community college students pursuing associate degrees in cybersecurity may also qualify for state and federal aid, with many technical colleges offering partnership programs that help transfer to four-year institutions through the Universal Credit Transfer Agreement.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator, Wisconsin
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity 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.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+801%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,482,166
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.
$123,810
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
Cybersecurity 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 Cybersecurity Graduates in Wisconsin
Find cybersecurity jobs in Wisconsin. These major employers across Wisconsin metro areas are actively hiring cybersecurity degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Cybersecurity Jobs in Madison
WICybersecurity Jobs in Milwaukee
WITransfer Pathways for Cybersecurity Degrees in Wisconsin
State Transfer System
Wisconsin offers an exceptionally well-structured transfer system for students pursuing cybersecurity degrees. The Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA) guarantees that general education credits earned at any UW System institution or participating technical college transfer seamlessly to other UW System universities. This means students can begin their cybersecurity journey at an affordable two-year technical college, such as Fox Valley Technical College (55 completions), Gateway Technical College (47 completions), or Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (44 completions), and transfer credits directly toward a bachelor's degree (University of Wisconsin System).
How Transfers Work
Students pursuing associate's degrees at Wisconsin's 18 community colleges with cybersecurity programs benefit from articulation agreements that recognize both general education and major-specific coursework. After completing an associate's degree, graduates can transfer to four-year institutions like University of Wisconsin-La Crosse or University of Wisconsin-Whitewater to earn bachelor's degrees without losing credits. This pathway significantly reduces overall degree costs while providing two years of hands-on technical training before transitioning to theoretical, advanced coursework (UCTA).
Transfer Planning Tips
Wisconsin residents transferring within the system also benefit from the Wisconsin Grant, a need-based financial aid program available at UW System institutions. This aid follows students through transfer, reducing financial barriers throughout their cybersecurity education. Additionally, students can explore related technical pathways in Information Security and Network Administration before committing to a four-year cybersecurity major, allowing for informed educational planning and career exploration.
Why Pursue a Cybersecurity Degree in Wisconsin?
Industry & Workforce
Wisconsin offers a strong cybersecurity education landscape with 30 institutions currently offering cybersecurity programs across associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree levels (IPEDS). The state's 18 community colleges and 7 four-year universities with cybersecurity bachelor's programs provide diverse pathways for students at every educational level. This breadth of options means aspiring cybersecurity professionals can find programs tailored to their academic background and career goals, whether starting at a technical college or pursuing an advanced degree at a research university.
Salary Outlook
Wisconsin's major metropolitan areas. Milwaukee, Madison, and the Fox Valley region, are home to significant tech employers and healthcare systems that drive cybersecurity demand. Organizations like Advocate Aurora Health, UW Health, Epic Systems, and Northwestern Mutual actively recruit cybersecurity talent, creating abundant internship and career opportunities for graduates. The state's public university system offers exceptional affordability, with average in-state tuition at four-year institutions at just $7,030 annually (University of Wisconsin System). Top-ranked programs like University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Platteville combine rigorous academics with cost-effectiveness, making Wisconsin an attractive destination for serious cybersecurity students.
Regional Tech Hubs
For students seeking related fields, Wisconsin also offers strong programs in Information Security, Network Administration, and Computer Science, allowing for flexible educational planning and specialization. The state's commitment to accessible higher education through programs like the Wisconsin Grant ensures that qualified residents can pursue cybersecurity credentials without excessive debt burden.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Cybersecurity Job Market & Salary Data in Wisconsin
Employment Outlook
Wisconsin's cybersecurity job market is supported by a strong educational pipeline, with 30 institutions offering cybersecurity programs across associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree levels (IPEDS). The state's major metropolitan areas. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Madison, and Green Bay, serve as primary employment hubs for cybersecurity professionals. These regions host large healthcare systems, financial services companies, and technology firms that consistently demand skilled cybersecurity talent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity roles remain in high demand across Wisconsin's diverse economic landscape (BLS State Data).
Salaries by Metro
The educational infrastructure supporting cybersecurity careers is strong. Wisconsin's two-year institutions have produced significant numbers of graduates, Fox Valley Technical College leads with 55 completions, followed by Gateway Technical College with 47 completions and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College with 44 completions (IPEDS). At the four-year level, the University of Wisconsin System offers affordable pathways, with public in-state tuition averaging $7,030 at four-year institutions. Students can leverage the Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA) to transfer credits seamlessly within the UW System, creating flexible career pathways (University of Wisconsin System). For those seeking advanced credentials, Wisconsin offers 5 master's-level programs across the state, with UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee ranking among the top options.
High-Growth Sectors
Career pathways in Wisconsin's cybersecurity field are strengthened by related program options. Students interested in broader technology careers can explore Information Security in Wisconsin, Network Administration in Wisconsin, or Computer Science in Wisconsin to build complementary skill sets. The state's commitment to affordable higher education through the Wisconsin Grant program for need-based aid further supports access to these growing career fields.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Cybersecurity Programs in Wisconsin
Online Programs
5 available in Wisconsin
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 30
- Median Tuition
- $6,100
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $5,900
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,500
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $14,100
- Total Programs
- 27
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $4,300
- Total Programs
- 50
- Median Tuition
- $6,200
- Total Programs
- 65
- Median Tuition
- $18,600
Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Wisconsin: FAQ
What are the best cybersecurity degree programs in Wisconsin?
How much do cybersecurity degree programs cost in Wisconsin?
What salary can cybersecurity degree graduates earn in Wisconsin?
Are there online cybersecurity degree programs in Wisconsin?
What companies hire cybersecurity degree graduates in Wisconsin?
Is a cybersecurity degree program worth it in Wisconsin?
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What financial aid is available for cybersecurity degree students in Wisconsin?
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.