Top 3 Data Science Programs in Wisconsin 2025
University of Wisconsin-Madison
415 data science graduates annually, 83% graduation rate
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
69 data science graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
Milwaukee School of Engineering
37 data science graduates annually, 77% graduation rate
- 1.Wisconsin offers 21+ accredited data science programs across public and private universities
- 2.University of Wisconsin-Madison leads with 83% 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)
Data Science Education in Wisconsin: Overview
Wisconsin offers 21 accredited data science programs, producing approximately 703 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 data science programs in the state are led by University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 21 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data Science 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 Data Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | Public | $9,644 | 83% | 85.4 |
| 2 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $8,455 | 97% | 57.7 |
| 3 | Milwaukee School of Engineering | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $46,385 | 77% | 51.8 |
| 4 | University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | La Crosse, WI | Public | $7,974 | 92% | 50.9 |
| 5 | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Whitewater, WI | Public | $6,812 | 92% | 46 |
| 6 | University of Wisconsin-Platteville | Platteville, WI | Public | $6,827 | 99% | 45.7 |
| 7 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $6,806 | 89% | 45.6 |
| 8 | University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | Green Bay, WI | Public | $6,767 | 79% | 45.4 |
| 9 | Wisconsin Lutheran College | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $34,520 | 93% | 45.4 |
| 10 | Carthage College | Kenosha, WI | Private | $36,500 | 91% | 44.2 |
| 11 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | Stevens Point, WI | Public | $7,112 | 86% | 43 |
| 12 | Beloit College | Beloit, WI | Private | $58,042 | — | 41 |
| 13 | Carroll University | Waukesha, WI | Private | $36,400 | — | 40.5 |
| 14 | Lawrence University | Appleton, WI | Private | $55,149 | — | 39.5 |
| 15 | University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | Eau Claire, WI | Public | $7,645 | — | 38.6 |
| 16 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | River Falls, WI | Public | $6,837 | — | 36.9 |
| 17 | Concordia University-Wisconsin | Mequon, WI | Private | $33,750 | — | 34.8 |
| 18 | Saint Norbert College | De Pere, WI | Private | $43,532 | — | 33.1 |
| 19 | Ripon College | Ripon, WI | Private | $50,400 | — | 32.3 |
| 20 | University of Wisconsin-Superior | Superior, WI | Public | $6,826 | — | 31.3 |
| 21 | Marquette University | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $47,690 | — | 31 |
Top 5 Data Science Programs in Wisconsin: Side-by-Side
| School | UW Madison | U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee School of... | U of Wisconsin-La Crosse | U of Wisconsin-Whitewater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,644 | $8,455 | $46,385 | $7,974 | $6,812 |
| Graduation Rate | 83% | 97% | 77% | 92% | 92% |
| Annual Graduates | 415 | 69 | 37 | 23 | 10 |
| Acceptance Rate | 43% | 88% | 60% | 73% | 83% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Public | Public |
| Score | 85.4/100 | 57.7/100 | 51.8/100 | 50.9/100 | 46.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Science in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers 18 bachelor's-level data science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,352 in the Wisconsin market.
A bachelor's in data science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UW Madison | $9,644 | 83% | 415 | 85.4 |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 88 | 59.7 |
| #3 Milwaukee School of... | $46,385 | 77% | 37 | 51.8 |
Top Data Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Wisconsin
For graduate study, Wisconsin offers 10 master's-level data science programs. Leading institutions include University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Wisconsin reaching $134,368 or more.
Top 3 Data Science Master's Programs in Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UW Madison | $9,644 | 83% | 83 | 82.2 |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 69 | 57.7 |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-La Crosse | $7,974 | 92% | 23 | 50.9 |
Most Affordable Data Science Colleges in Wisconsin
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data science 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 Data Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Data Science 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 Data Science Schools in Wisconsin
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 data science 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-Madison
Madison, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,644 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 415 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 43%
- • Ranking Score: 85.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 83% graduation rate
- 415 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 85.4 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (83%), program size (415 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (43% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,455 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 69 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 57.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 69 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 57.7 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (69 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Bachelor of Science in Data Science is a special interdisciplinary program blending courses from College of Letters & Science and College of Engineering & Applied Science. Milwaukee's proximity to major employers like Harley-Davidson, Northwestern Mutual, and others provides excellent internship opportunities and career connections for students.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Calculus
- •Linear Algebra and Differential Equations
- •Computer Programming
- •Statistical Analysis
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.000
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Harley-Davidson, Molson Coors, Rockwell Automation, Johnson Controls, FIS, Northwestern Mutual
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee, WI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $46,385 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 77% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 37 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 51.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 77% graduation rate
- 37 data science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 51.8 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 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 offers hands-on learning on the AI revolution with access to GPU supercomputer Rosie and specialized labs, while providing industry-sponsored capstone projects and achieving 98% graduate placement in employment or further education.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 62.4%
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $75,532
- Job Placement: 98% obtained full-time employment, are attending graduate school or actively serving in military
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
La Crosse, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,974 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 23 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 73%
- • Ranking Score: 50.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 23 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.9 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (23 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (73% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UW-La Crosse offers a comprehensive 30-credit Master of Science in Data Science program that covers cutting-edge topics from big data and machine learning to deep learning and ethical decision-making. The program includes hands-on experience through a required capstone project and emphasizes practical skills in data storytelling and management.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Elementary Statistics
- •Introduction to Programming
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,812 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 10 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 46.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 10 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 46.0 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 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.
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Data Engineer
SOC 15-1252Data Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1299Machine Learning Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2051Data Analyst opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2051Business Intelligence 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 21)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Wisconsin
Explore artificial intelligence programs in Wisconsin
Explore machine learning programs in Wisconsin
Explore data analytics programs in Wisconsin
Explore cybersecurity programs in Wisconsin
Explore information security programs in Wisconsin
Explore software engineering programs in Wisconsin
Explore computer science programs in Wisconsin
Explore computer engineering programs in Wisconsin
Explore information technology programs in Wisconsin
Data Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Data Science 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.