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Key Takeaways
Best data analytics degree programs: U of Wisconsin-Madison, U of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Carthage College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,386 to $47,690/year
Gateway Technical College offers the most affordable option at $4,386/yr
Data Analytics degree programs available: 3 associate's, 10 master's, 1 doctoral in Wisconsin
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online data analytics degree programs in Wisconsin
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Wisconsin community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
3 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
Data Analytics degree programs near 45+ cities across Wisconsin
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Wisconsin Data Analytics programs
We rank 22 accredited data analytics 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.
Are Data Analytics Degree Programs in Wisconsin Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Analytics Degree Rankings in Wisconsin
Compare the top-ranked Data Analytics programs in Wisconsin by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Data Analytics Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 3 accredited associate's degree programs in data analytics, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Gateway Technical College, Waukesha County Technical..., Fox Valley Technical College, 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 $4,386/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 data analytics schools in Wisconsin, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their data analytics degrees in Wisconsin.
Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with 8 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 5 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Wisconsin-Madison, U of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Carthage College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Wisconsin data analytics 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 $6,827 to $47,690 annually, with an average of $20,932/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 92%, 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 data analytics degrees in Wisconsin, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Show all 8 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Marquette University | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $47,690 | — | 37.0 |
| #7 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | River Falls, WI | Public | $6,837 | — | 51.7 |
| #8 | Saint Norbert College | De Pere, WI | Private | $43,532 | — | 33.8 |
Best Master's Data Analytics Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 10 master's degree programs in data analytics, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Wisconsin-Madison, Milwaukee School of Engin..., U of Wisconsin-La Crosse, 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 $17,932/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 data analytics schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Show all 10 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | Stevens Point, WI | Public | $7,112 | 86% | 55.1 |
| #7 | University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | Eau Claire, WI | Public | $7,645 | — | 54.3 |
| #8 | Marian University | Fond Du Lac, WI | Private | $32,472 | — | 46.8 |
| #9 | Marquette University | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $47,690 | — | 42.8 |
| #10 | University of Wisconsin-Superior | Superior, WI | Public | $6,826 | — | 38.9 |
Best Doctoral Data Analytics Programs in Wisconsin
Program Landscape
Wisconsin is home to 1 doctoral programs in data analytics, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Wisconsin-Madison 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 data analytics 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.
Data Analytics Degree Costs & Tuition in Wisconsin
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $16,368/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $40,920/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,092/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $98,208 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $24,552 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Analytics Students in Wisconsin
State Aid Programs
Wisconsin residents pursuing data analytics degrees have access to targeted financial aid programs designed to make higher education affordable. The Wisconsin Grant program provides need-based grants specifically for Wisconsin residents enrolled at University of Wisconsin System institutions, making it an essential resource for students attending top-ranked programs like University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. This state-specific aid complements federal financial aid options available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which all students should complete regardless of residency status. The combination of state and federal aid can significantly reduce the net cost of attendance, particularly at public institutions where average in-state tuition is $7,030 annually (IPEDS).
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond grants, students can explore federal loan programs, work-study opportunities, and institutional scholarships offered by individual universities. The University of Wisconsin System's commitment to affordability is reflected in comprehensive financial aid packages, with many schools offering merit-based scholarships for strong academic performers. Students should visit StudentAid.gov to understand federal loan options and complete the FAFSA by priority deadlines. Additionally, Wisconsin Grant eligibility requirements and application details are available through the University of Wisconsin System website. Community college students pursuing associate degrees in data analytics can benefit from significantly lower tuition costs, with Gateway Technical College offering tuition as low as $4,386, before transferring credits through the Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA), which guarantees transfer of general education credits within the UW System.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator, Wisconsin
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data analytics 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.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data analytics 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
Data Analytics 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 Data Analytics Graduates in Wisconsin
Find data analytics jobs in Wisconsin. These major employers across Wisconsin metro areas are actively hiring data analytics degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Analytics Jobs in Madison
WIData Analytics Jobs in Milwaukee
WITransfer Pathways for Data Analytics Degrees in Wisconsin
State Transfer System
Wisconsin's transfer system is among the most streamlined in the nation, thanks to the Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA), which guarantees the transfer of general education credits across all University of Wisconsin System institutions (UCTA). This framework is particularly valuable for data analytics students pursuing a two-year to four-year pathway. Wisconsin operates 21 two-year institutions including notable community and technical colleges, which award 12 associate's degree completions annually in data analytics. Students completing associate's degrees at institutions like Gateway Technical College can transfer directly into bachelor's programs at UW institutions. Madison, Milwaukee, La Crosse, Platteville, or Whitewater, with guaranteed credit recognition for general education requirements. This seamless transfer eliminates redundant coursework and reduces both time-to-degree and total educational costs.
How Transfers Work
The UCTA agreement ensures that credits earned in core disciplines transfer directly, allowing students to focus on upper-level data analytics coursework at four-year institutions. Beyond general education transfers, Wisconsin also supports programmatic articulation agreements between specific community colleges and universities. Students should work closely with their community college advisors to ensure course selection aligns with target bachelor's degree requirements. The Wisconsin Grant program (Wisconsin Grant) further supports transfer students by providing need-based financial aid that follows them throughout the UW System, removing financial barriers to continuing education. This integrated support system makes Wisconsin an exceptionally affordable pathway from associate's to bachelor's to master's degrees.
Transfer Planning Tips
Transfer students should also consider online and flexible delivery options available through UW institutions. Programs like Online Bachelor's Rankings at UW-Milwaukee, UW-Platteville, and UW-Whitewater accommodate working professionals and non-traditional students. For detailed information on transfer policies, credit evaluations, and program-specific prerequisites, visit the University of Wisconsin Transfer Portal or contact individual institution admissions offices. Students exploring complementary fields should review Data Science in Wisconsin and Information Systems in Wisconsin, as these programs often feature similar transfer-friendly structures and may offer additional specialization opportunities.
Why Pursue a Data Analytics Degree in Wisconsin?
Industry & Workforce
Wisconsin has established itself as a strong hub for data analytics education, with 26 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state's commitment to data science talent is evident in its diverse academic pathway options: 4 associate's programs, 9 bachelor's programs, 12 master's programs, and 1 doctoral program. This comprehensive landscape allows students to choose entry points and progression routes that match their career goals and educational background. The University of Wisconsin System, the state's primary higher education governing body (University of Wisconsin System), has made data analytics a priority across its campus network.
Salary Outlook
Wisconsin's affordability distinguishes it from national averages. Public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of just $7,030, significantly lower than the national landscape. Top-ranked programs like the University of Wisconsin-Madison and UW-Milwaukee offer education at accessible price points. The state is home to major technology employers including Epic Systems, Kohl's, Northwestern Mutual, and leading healthcare systems like Advocate Aurora Health and UW Health, creating direct pathways from graduation to employment in data-driven roles.
Regional Tech Hubs
Wisconsin's geographic advantages extend across multiple metropolitan areas. Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay serve as economic centers with significant demand for data analytics professionals. The University of Wisconsin-Madison alone has produced 374 completions, establishing itself as a national leader in the field. For additional context on related fields, explore Data Science in Wisconsin and Information Systems in Wisconsin to understand complementary educational opportunities in the state's tech ecosystem.
Data Analytics Program Availability in Wisconsin
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Analytics Job Market & Salary Data in Wisconsin
Employment Outlook
Wisconsin's data analytics job market is experiencing steady growth, driven by the state's strong healthcare, technology, and retail sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Wisconsin continues to develop strong opportunities for analytics professionals across multiple industries. The state's major metropolitan areas. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Madison, and Green Bay, serve as primary employment hubs for data-driven roles. Madison, home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison which produces 374 completions in data analytics annually, has become a particular growth center for tech talent. Milwaukee and the surrounding metro area similarly attract significant numbers of analytics professionals seeking positions with established corporations and emerging tech firms.
Salaries by Metro
The Wisconsin higher education system supports this market with 26 institutions offering data analytics programs across associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Wisconsin institutions awarded 279 bachelor's degrees, 256 master's degrees, 12 associate's degrees, and 17 doctoral degrees in data analytics. This pipeline of talent helps meet regional employer demand while keeping the state competitive. Students pursuing data analytics in Wisconsin benefit from access to both affordable public options, with average in-state tuition at four-year public institutions at $7,030, and specialized programs at schools like University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Milwaukee School of Engineering. Graduates find themselves well-positioned to enter Wisconsin's evolving data-driven economy.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Data Analytics Programs in Wisconsin
Online Programs
2 available in Wisconsin
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Data Analytics Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 26
- Median Tuition
- $14,400
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $32,500
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $37,000
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $16,400
- Total Programs
- 64
- Median Tuition
- $11,800
- Total Programs
- 16
- Median Tuition
- $11,500
- Total Programs
- 44
- Median Tuition
- $11,700
- Total Programs
- 42
- Median Tuition
- $47,200
Data Analytics Degree Programs in Wisconsin: FAQ
What are the best data analytics degree programs in Wisconsin?
How much do data analytics degree programs cost in Wisconsin?
What salary can data analytics degree graduates earn in Wisconsin?
Are there online data analytics degree programs in Wisconsin?
What companies hire data analytics degree graduates in Wisconsin?
Is a data analytics degree program worth it in Wisconsin?
How long do data analytics degree programs take in Wisconsin?
What financial aid is available for data analytics 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.