Top 3 Machine Learning Programs in Wisconsin 2025
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
87 machine learning graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
Milwaukee School of Engineering
37 machine learning graduates annually, 77% graduation rate
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
31 machine learning graduates annually, 79% graduation rate
- 1.Wisconsin offers 17+ accredited machine learning programs across public and private universities
- 2.University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee leads with 97% 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)
Machine Learning Education in Wisconsin: Overview
Wisconsin offers 17 accredited machine learning programs, producing approximately 265 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 machine learning programs in the state are led by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 17 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Machine Learning 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 Machine Learning Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $8,455 | 97% | 77 |
| 2 | Milwaukee School of Engineering | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $46,385 | 77% | 62.6 |
| 3 | University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | Green Bay, WI | Public | $6,767 | 79% | 55.8 |
| 4 | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Whitewater, WI | Public | $6,812 | 92% | 51.6 |
| 5 | Wisconsin Lutheran College | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $34,520 | 93% | 49.4 |
| 6 | University of Wisconsin-Platteville | Platteville, WI | Public | $6,827 | 99% | 49.3 |
| 7 | Concordia University-Wisconsin | Mequon, WI | Private | $33,750 | — | 47.5 |
| 8 | Beloit College | Beloit, WI | Private | $58,042 | — | 46.9 |
| 9 | Carroll University | Waukesha, WI | Private | $36,400 | — | 46.1 |
| 10 | University of Wisconsin-Stout | Menomonie, WI | Public | $7,330 | — | 45.7 |
| 11 | Lawrence University | Appleton, WI | Private | $55,149 | — | 45.1 |
| 12 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | Stevens Point, WI | Public | $7,112 | 86% | 44.6 |
| 13 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $6,806 | 89% | 42.5 |
| 14 | Saint Norbert College | De Pere, WI | Private | $43,532 | — | 38.2 |
| 15 | Marquette University | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $47,690 | — | 36.3 |
| 16 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | River Falls, WI | Public | $6,837 | — | 35.2 |
| 17 | Ripon College | Ripon, WI | Private | $50,400 | — | 34.8 |
Top 5 Machine Learning Programs in Wisconsin: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee School of... | U of Wisconsin-Green Bay | U of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Wisconsin Lutheran College |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,455 | $46,385 | $6,767 | $6,812 | $34,520 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 77% | 79% | 92% | 93% |
| Annual Graduates | 87 | 37 | 31 | 10 | 5 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88% | 60% | 88% | 83% | 79% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 77.0/100 | 62.6/100 | 55.8/100 | 51.6/100 | 49.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Machine Learning in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers 15 bachelor's-level machine learning programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,352 in the Wisconsin market.
A bachelor's in machine learning typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Machine Learning Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Machine Learning Bachelor's Programs in Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 87 | 77.0 |
| #2 Milwaukee School of... | $46,385 | 77% | 37 | 62.6 |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-Green Bay | $6,767 | 79% | 31 | 55.8 |
Top Machine Learning Schools for Master's Degrees in Wisconsin
For graduate study, Wisconsin offers 3 master's-level machine learning programs. Leading institutions include University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-River Falls. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Wisconsin reaching $134,368 or more.
Top 3 Machine Learning Master's Programs in Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 69 | 73.3 |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Whitewater | $6,812 | 92% | 10 | 51.6 |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-River Falls | $6,837 | N/A% | 2 | 35.2 |
Most Affordable Machine Learning Colleges in Wisconsin
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable machine learning 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 Machine Learning Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Machine Learning 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 Machine Learning Schools in Wisconsin
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 machine learning 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-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,455 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Machine Learning Graduates: 87 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 77.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 87 machine learning graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 77.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (87 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UWM's AI & Machine Learning Graduate Certificate is shaped by industry advisory input and can be completed in one year, with the global AI market growing at more than 40% annually creating strong demand for graduates. The program is offered by a university trusted by innovators including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.
Admission Prerequisites
- •math and programming academic preparation
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.75
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 15 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee, WI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $46,385 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 77% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Machine Learning Graduates: 37 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 62.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 77% graduation rate
- 37 machine learning graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 62.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 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 M.S. in Machine Learning is an online program designed for working professionals that includes use of Rosie the supercomputer, small class sizes, and stackable certificates allowing students to earn credentials along the way. The program emphasizes immediate application with industry applications in every course and faculty who excel in teaching, research and student support.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Technical bachelor's degree
- •Programming experience with object-oriented programming language (C++, python, etc.)
- •One year of college coursework or equivalent minimum (data structures course preferred)
- •At least one year of differential and integral calculus (multivariable or linear algebra preferred)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.8
Program Details
- Credits: 32 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,767 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 79% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Machine Learning Graduates: 31 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 55.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 79% graduation rate
- 31 machine learning graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 55.8 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (79%), program size (31 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,812 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Machine Learning Graduates: 10 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 51.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 10 machine learning graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 51.6 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 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.
Why Choose This Program
UW-Whitewater offers the #1 online MBA in Wisconsin from Wisconsin's largest business school, with 13 unique emphases including Data Analytics and Cybersecurity, taught by 100% doctoral instructors with no teaching assistants.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 36 credits
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 96% career placement
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Milwaukee, WI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $34,520 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Machine Learning Graduates: 5 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 79%
- • Ranking Score: 49.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 5 machine learning graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 49.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (5 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (79% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity 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 17)
- 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
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Explore data analytics programs in Wisconsin
Explore cybersecurity programs in Wisconsin
Explore information security programs in Wisconsin
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Explore computer science programs in Wisconsin
Explore computer engineering programs in Wisconsin
Explore information technology programs in Wisconsin
Machine Learning Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Machine Learning 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.