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Rasmussen University-Wisconsin
Green Bay, WIPrivate for-profit
$13,929
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad rate
77.6
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information systems degree programs: U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, U of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $6,582 to $47,690/year
U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers the most affordable option at $8,455/yr
Information Systems degree programs available: 1 associate's, 8 master's, 2 doctoral in Wisconsin
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
3 online information systems degree programs in Wisconsin
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Wisconsin community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
1 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
Information Systems 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 Information Systems programs
We rank 25 accredited information systems 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.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Information Systems Degree Programs in Wisconsin Worth It?
Answer
$103,360
Yes. The best information systems degree programs in Wisconsin deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $103,360 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $20,161/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Systems Degree Rankings in Wisconsin
Compare the top-ranked Information Systems programs in Wisconsin by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Information Systems Programs in Wisconsin
1
Programs ranked
$13,929
Avg tuition/yr
57%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in information systems, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Rasmussen University-Wisc..., 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 $12,058/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 information systems schools in Wisconsin, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information systems degrees in Wisconsin.
Best Bachelor's Information Systems Programs in Wisconsin
11
Programs ranked
$12,862
Avg tuition/yr
55%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Wisconsin ranks among the nation's top destinations for information systems education, with 14 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 9 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, U of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Wisconsin information systems 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 $47,690 annually, with an average of $18,572/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 87%, with the highest reaching 97%. 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 information systems degrees in Wisconsin, these top-ranked information systems schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$10,006
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad rate
96.3
Hakia Score
#4
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WIPublic
Milwaukee: The extended campus of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee$8,772
Tuition/yr
49%
Grad rate
72.7
Hakia Score
Show all 11 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $7,061 | 46% | 70.7 |
| #7 | University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | Green Bay, WI | Public | $7,125 | 48% | 70.5 |
| #8 | Marian University | Fond Du Lac, WI | Private nonprofit | $34,650 | 44% | 66.8 |
| #9 | Lakeland University | Plymouth, WI | Private nonprofit | $31,900 | 42% | 63.4 |
| #10 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $6,750 | — | 59.9 |
| #11 | Ottawa University-Milwaukee | Brookfield, WI | Private nonprofit | $11,976 | — | 55.8 |
Best Master's Information Systems Programs in Wisconsin
3
Programs ranked
$22,949
Avg tuition/yr
74%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 8 master's degree programs in information systems, 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, Milwaukee School of Engin..., 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 $24,619/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 information systems schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$10,006
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad rate
92.5
Hakia Score
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University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WIPublic
Milwaukee: The extended campus of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee$8,772
Tuition/yr
49%
Grad rate
65.4
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Information Systems Programs in Wisconsin
2
Programs ranked
$9,389
Avg tuition/yr
70%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Wisconsin is home to 2 doctoral programs in information systems, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 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 information systems 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.
Information Systems Degree Costs & Tuition in Wisconsin
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $20,161/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $50,403/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,040/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $120,968 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $30,242 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Systems Students in Wisconsin
State Aid Programs
Wisconsin residents pursuing Information Systems degrees have access to strong state and federal financial aid programs. The Wisconsin Grant, administered through the University of Wisconsin System, provides need-based grants exclusively for Wisconsin residents attending UW System institutions. This program significantly reduces the cost burden for eligible students and complements federal aid options available through the FAFSA process. All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at StudentAid.gov to access federal Pell Grants, loans, and work-study opportunities regardless of institution type or residency status.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state grants, Wisconsin's public universities offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid for Information Systems majors. The University of Wisconsin System's Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA) ensures that students who begin their studies at a two-year institution can seamlessly transfer to a four-year university while preserving credits and financial aid eligibility. For detailed information about Wisconsin-specific financial aid programs, visit the Wisconsin Grant page on the University of Wisconsin System website. Students should also explore department-specific scholarships at their chosen institution and consult the College Scorecard to compare net prices across Wisconsin schools.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator, Wisconsin
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information systems 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.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$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
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
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
Information Systems Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Wisconsin metro areas
Madison$114K
Milwaukee$109K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Madison | $114K |
| Milwaukee | $109K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Information Systems Graduates in Wisconsin
Find information systems jobs in Wisconsin. These major employers across Wisconsin metro areas are actively hiring information systems degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Systems Jobs in Madison
WIEpic Systems
healthtech
Exact Sciences
biotech
American Family Insurance
insurance
University of Wisconsin-Madison
education
Information Systems Jobs in Milwaukee
WINorthwestern Mutual
finance
Rockwell Automation
manufacturing
Johnson Controls
tech
Kohl's
retail-tech
Transfer Pathways for Information Systems Degrees in Wisconsin
State Transfer System
Wisconsin's transfer pathways help seamless progression from two-year to four-year institutions, making high-quality Information Systems education accessible and affordable. The state's 21 two-year institutions offer 1 associate's degree program in Information Systems, providing students with foundational coursework before transferring to bachelor's degree programs. The Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA) guarantees that general education credits completed at any University of Wisconsin System institution transfer seamlessly within the system, eliminating prerequisite duplication and reducing time-to-degree. This agreement creates a cost-effective pathway: students can complete lower-level coursework at community colleges where tuition averages $7,030 for public institutions, then transfer to comprehensive research universities like University of Wisconsin-Madison or University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
How Transfers Work
Many Wisconsin colleges participate in articulation agreements that explicitly recognize IS coursework for transfer credit, allowing students to apply previously earned credits directly toward bachelor's and master's degree requirements. The Wisconsin Grant program provides need-based financial aid to eligible resident students at UW System institutions, reducing financial barriers to transfer and completion. Students considering transfer pathways should consult the UCTA guidelines and their community college advisors to develop coordinated course plans. For financial aid information, visit Federal Student Aid and explore Wisconsin-specific grants through the University of Wisconsin System. Prospective students can also explore complementary transfer-friendly programs in Data Analytics, Database Management, and Information Technology across Wisconsin's public and private institutions.
Why Pursue an Information Systems Degree in Wisconsin?
Industry & Workforce
Wisconsin offers a strong landscape for Information Systems education, with 33 institutions across the state offering programs at all degree levels (IPEDS). The state's 20 bachelor's degree programs produced 391 completions in 2023, while 10 master's programs generated 169 completions, reflecting strong demand for IS professionals. Leading institutions like the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, which reported the highest completion count at 209 graduates, and UW-Madison demonstrate Wisconsin's commitment to preparing skilled IT professionals for the modern workforce.
Salary Outlook
Wisconsin's major metropolitan areas. Milwaukee, Madison, and the Fox Valley, serve as hubs for technology employment. Major employers including Advocate Aurora Health, UW Health, Epic Systems, Kohl's, and Northwestern Mutual actively recruit information systems graduates. Wisconsin residents benefit from competitive public tuition rates, with an average in-state cost of $7,030 annually at four-year public institutions (IPEDS), making high-quality IS education accessible. Those seeking top-ranked programs can choose from UW-Madison's comprehensive offerings or explore excellent regional alternatives like UW-Milwaukee and Milwaukee School of Engineering, which are also recognized nationally. For more specialized career paths, consider complementary programs in Information Technology, Data Analytics, or Cloud Computing available throughout the state.
Information Systems Program Availability in Wisconsin
18 Programs
Wisconsin offers 18 accredited information systems programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Madison, Milwaukee.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Information Systems Job Market & Salary Data in Wisconsin
Employment Outlook
Wisconsin's information systems job market is strong and geographically diverse, with strong opportunities across multiple metropolitan regions. The state's major tech hubs include the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis metro area, Madison, and the Green Bay region, each serving as a employment center for IS professionals. According to BLS State Data, Wisconsin continues to show steady demand for information systems specialists across these markets. The state's universities are responding to this demand: Wisconsin institutions awarded 391 bachelor's degrees, 169 master's degrees, and 7 doctoral degrees in information systems during 2023, according to IPEDS data. This pipeline of talent reflects the ongoing need for skilled IS professionals in the state's growing tech economy.
Salaries by Metro
Employment prospects in Wisconsin's information systems field are strengthened by the presence of major regional employers and the state's commitment to workforce development. The Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay metro areas represent the primary employment markets, with countless smaller cities including Kenosha, Racine, Appleton, and Waukesha contributing to the overall job landscape. Career seekers should explore resources like the College Scorecard to compare program outcomes and earnings potential across Wisconsin's 33 institutions offering information systems programs. For prospective students, understanding the relationship between local job markets and educational options is essential, explore how Information Technology in Wisconsin and Data Analytics in Wisconsin complement IS career pathways in the state.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Wisconsin$67,184$149,872
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Information Systems Programs in Wisconsin
Online Programs
3 available in Wisconsin
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$18,145/yr$20,161/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Information Systems Programs in Other States
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Minnesota
- Total Programs
- 34
- Median Tuition
- $9,600
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Iowa
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $30,800
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Illinois
- Total Programs
- 66
- Median Tuition
- $14,400
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Michigan
- Total Programs
- 37
- Median Tuition
- $15,000
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 133
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 110
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Information Systems Degree Programs in Wisconsin: FAQ
What are the best information systems degree programs in Wisconsin?
The best information systems degree programs in Wisconsin based on our methodology are: 1) University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (97% graduation rate), 2) University of Wisconsin-Madison, and 3) Marquette University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Wisconsin offers 18 total accredited programs across 9 public and 8 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 14 bachelor's programs.
How much do information systems degree programs cost in Wisconsin?
Information Systems degree program costs in Wisconsin vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $20,161/year, while private institutions average $44,354/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,040/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $80,644 at public schools to $177,417 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information systems degree graduates earn in Wisconsin?
Information Systems professionals in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $103,360, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,184, while senior roles exceed $149,872. Salaries vary by metro area: Madison ($113,696), Milwaukee ($108,528) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information systems degree programs in Wisconsin?
Yes, Wisconsin offers 3 accredited online Information Systems programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Marian University and Rasmussen University-Wisconsin. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information systems degree graduates in Wisconsin?
Major Information Systems employers in Wisconsin include Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual, Exact Sciences, Generac. The Madison and Milwaukee metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Wisconsin universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Wisconsin's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information systems degree program worth it in Wisconsin?
An information systems degree program in Wisconsin offers strong ROI with a $103,360 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $20,161/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($116,797), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information systems degree programs take in Wisconsin?
Standard completion times for information systems degree programs in Wisconsin are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Wisconsin community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Wisconsin university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information systems degree students in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin information systems degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Wisconsin state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Wisconsin's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Wisconsin salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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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.