Best Associate's Software Engineering Degree Programs in Wisconsin
Chippewa Valley Technical College — Eau Claire, WI
Hakia Insight: Chippewa Valley's labs emphasize cloud platforms and frameworks already in production at Mayo Clinic and regional manufacturers, meaning your capstone projects aren't hypothetical—they're shaped by what hiring managers are actively using.
At the associate's level, you'll spend significant time in hands-on labs here working with current development frameworks and cloud platforms that employers actually use. The program emphasizes practical application over theory, meaning you'll build real projects rather than just study concepts. Graduates typically move into junior developer roles or pursue four-year degrees at UW-Eau Claire and UW-Stout, which actively recruit from CVTC's pipeline. The college's proximity to tech employers in the Eau Claire region creates solid internship and job placement opportunities, particularly with healthcare IT and manufacturing software companies.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Mayo Clinic (Rochester, nearby), Local manufacturing firms, Regional healthcare IT providers.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Stout
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Software Developer
- Web Developer
- IT Support Specialist
- Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Oracle Cloud Associate
Location Advantages:
Fox Valley Technical College — Appleton, WI
Hakia Insight: Fox Valley's industry advisory board model is unusually transparent: the curriculum refreshes based on employer feedback, not academic inertia, so a graduate entering the job market faces minimal skill-to-job-posting translation work.
At the associate's level, what sets FVTC apart is its strong industry advisory board that keeps curriculum aligned with what Fox Valley employers actually need right now—not what they needed five years ago. You'll work with instructors who have real-world development experience and maintain active connections with companies like paper manufacturers and healthcare providers in the region. The program balances web development, mobile app creation, and enterprise software skills. Graduates land roles with local employers immediately or transfer to UW-Oshkosh and UW-Green Bay with junior standing.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Appleton-area manufacturers, Regional healthcare systems, Local financial services firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
- University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Web Developer
- Junior Programmer
- IT Help Desk Technician
- Application Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
Location Advantages:
Milwaukee Area Technical College — Milwaukee, WI
Hakia Insight: MATC's scale as Milwaukee's largest technical college means access to Fortune 500 hiring pipelines (Johnson Controls, WEC Energy, Ascension) that smaller programs simply can't match, collapsing the distance between graduation and offer.
At the associate's level, being Milwaukee's largest technical college means MATC has partnerships with Fortune 500 companies headquartered or operating in Wisconsin—think healthcare tech giants and manufacturing software leaders. The software engineering program emphasizes both backend and frontend development with intensive project-based learning in state-of-the-art labs. You'll have access to internships with major regional employers and a robust alumni network already working in tech roles. Graduates commonly transition to UW-Milwaukee's engineering programs or move directly into developer positions with six-figure growth potential.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Johnson Controls, Ascension Health, WEC Energy Group, Baird Financial Services.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Software Developer
- Web Application Developer
- Full-Stack Developer
- IT Support Specialist
- Database Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Oracle Cloud Associate
Location Advantages:
Waukesha County Technical College — Pewaukee, WI
Hakia Insight: NWTC's partnerships with industrial-scale employers like Georgia-Pacific and P&H Mining Equipment mean the program teaches software for mission-critical systems—manufacturing software, not toy projects—a credential that commands premium starting salaries in that sector.
At the associate's level, this college's software engineering program thrives on its location in Wisconsin's tech corridor, where a cluster of software, healthcare, and financial services companies constantly recruit. Students gain experience with modern development stacks through partnerships that often lead directly to internships and job offers. The curriculum balances coding fundamentals with professional development skills—communication, teamwork, and problem-solving matter as much as syntax. Transfer agreements with UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, and Marquette University make the pathway seamless if you want to continue for a bachelor's degree.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Waukesha-area tech startups, Financial services firms, Healthcare software companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Marquette University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Developer
- Web Developer
- Help Desk Technician
- QA Software Tester
- Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Developer Associate
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College — Green Bay, WI
At the associate's level, students here get access to a program rooted in real manufacturing and industrial software needs—NWTC partners directly with paper mills, food processing plants, and industrial automation companies that are hungry for developers. You'll learn systems thinking and how software integrates with physical operations, a specialty many pure tech schools miss. The instructors bring decades of combined industry experience. Graduates easily transition to UW-Green Bay or land solid technical roles with regional manufacturers and utilities that value the practical, systems-minded approach.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: P&H Mining Equipment, Georgia-Pacific, Appleton Papers, Local utilities.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
- University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Developer
- Industrial Software Technician
- Systems Support Specialist
- Network Technician
- IT Help Desk Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Cisco CCNA
Location Advantages:
Moraine Park Technical College — Fond du Lac, WI
Hakia Insight: Moraine Park's central Wisconsin employers (healthcare, agriculture tech, manufacturing) hire for specific skill combinations that differ from coastal tech hubs, giving graduates a competitive advantage in a less-saturated labor market.
At the associate's level, curriculum here is built around what employers in central Wisconsin say they need, and that means strong emphasis on practical coding skills and immediate employability. The program benefits from being in an area with diverse industries—agriculture tech, healthcare systems, and manufacturing—creating varied internship and job opportunities. You'll work in modern labs with current tools and platforms. Many graduates stay local with solid technical positions, while others leverage transfer agreements with UW-Oshkosh and UW-Madison to pursue four-year degrees in computer science.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional healthcare providers, Manufacturing companies, Agriculture technology firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Developer
- Web Developer
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- QA Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Oracle Cloud Associate
Location Advantages:
Northcentral Technical College — Wausau, WI
Hakia Insight: Northcentral's smaller size isn't a limitation—it's intentional focus: the program specializes in roles for central Wisconsin manufacturers and government IT, where hiring happens year-round and competition from credential-stacking is minimal.
At the associate's level, don't let the smaller size fool you—NCTC's software engineering program is strategically focused on the types of roles and companies that actually hire in central Wisconsin. The curriculum emphasizes depth in practical development skills over breadth, meaning you graduate job-ready rather than needing extensive additional training. Instructors know local employers personally and often facilitate direct job placements. Transfer options to UW-Stevens Point and other UW schools are built into the program design from day one.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Central Wisconsin manufacturers, Regional healthcare systems, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Developer
- Web Developer
- IT Support Technician
- Help Desk Specialist
- Junior Programmer
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Gateway Technical College — Kenosha, WI
Hakia Insight: Gateway's southeast Wisconsin location puts graduates adjacent to manufacturing and logistics software demand (supply chain visibility, industrial IoT) that's harder to find in programs anchored to general-purpose curriculum.
At the associate's level, gateway's location in southeast Wisconsin's industrial heartland means the software engineering program is shaped by demand from manufacturers, logistics companies, and healthcare systems that need custom software solutions. You'll develop skills in full-stack development with emphasis on enterprise applications and business software. The college maintains active relationships with major employers, creating robust internship pipelines and job placement. Transfer articulations with UW-Parkside and UW-Milwaukee position you well for a four-year degree if you choose that path.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Southeast Wisconsin manufacturers, Logistics and supply chain companies, Regional healthcare IT.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Parkside
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Software Developer
- Web Developer
- IT Support Technician
- Help Desk Specialist
- Systems Support Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Developer Associate
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Western Technical College — La Crosse, WI
Hakia Insight: Western's emphasis on architecting real business solutions from day one, rather than syntax drills, means graduates spend less onboarding time translating textbook knowledge into production systems.
At the associate's level, western's program stands out for integrating practical problem-solving from day one—you're not just learning syntax, you're architecting solutions to real business challenges. The college's connections with northwest Wisconsin employers in healthcare, manufacturing, and utilities mean internships and job placements come naturally. Instructors have active industry experience and bring that perspective into the classroom. Graduates succeed both in immediate technical roles and in transfer pathways to UW-Superior and UW-Eau Claire.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Northwest Wisconsin healthcare systems, Manufacturing companies, Utilities and public sector agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Superior
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Software Developer
- Web Developer
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Northwood Technical College — Rice Lake, WI
Hakia Insight: Northwood Technical College's focus on forest products and outdoor recreation software—sectors generating millions in annual revenue but chronically undersupplied with engineers—positions graduates as specialists in a niche labor market where they face virtually no competition from traditional CS programs.
At the associate's level, this program emphasizes technical depth with a regional focus on logging, forest products, and outdoor recreation industries—sectors often overlooked in software education but increasingly digitized and hungry for tech talent. You'll develop solid foundational coding skills while learning how software transforms traditional industries. The intimate class sizes mean personal attention from instructors. Graduates find immediate employment locally or transfer to UW schools with a competitive skill set and real-world problem-solving experience.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Software Engineering — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Forest products companies, Regional outdoor recreation companies, Local healthcare and government agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Developer
- IT Support Technician
- Help Desk Specialist
- Junior Programmer
- Systems Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Software Engineering Degree Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, WI
Key Distinction: Mandatory 4-credit capstone design project. Hands-on laboratory courses including Circuits Laboratory and Introductory Microprocessor Laboratory
Hakia Insight: UW-Madison's Computer Engineering program channels undergrads into three specialized research labs (Systems, Security, HCI) before their mandatory capstone, meaning students arrive at their final project with publishable research experience rather than classroom-only backgrounds.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at UW-Madison focuses on hardware design, semiconductor technologies, and digital systems, with applications from wearables to embedded systems. Students complete a 120-credit curriculum including 33 credits of core computer engineering coursework, 16 credits of advanced electives, and a mandatory 4-credit capstone design project. The program offers specialization tracks through named options in semiconductor engineering or machine learning and data science. Unique features include hands-on laboratory experiences, a required capstone design course with options like embedded systems or mobile computing labs, and opportunities for undergraduate research through the Honors in Research program. Professional electives allow up to one cooperative education credit, and students can take up to 6 credits from School of Business classes. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application through extensive lab work and design projects.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Systems Laboratory
- Security and Privacy Lab
- Human-Computer Interaction Laboratory
- Artificial Intelligence Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Apple (corporate)
- Meta (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- Argonne National Laboratory (government)
- Sandia National Laboratories (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Somesh Jha — Cybersecurity, formal methods, and systems security
- Susan Wiedenbeck — Human-computer interaction and usability
- Michael Swift — Operating systems and computer architecture
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00 GPA. Application Deadline: December 15.
Requirements: Mathematics (19 credits), Science (20-21 credits), Computer Engineering Core (33 credits), Computer Engineering Advanced Electives (16 credits), Professional Electives (9 credits), Communication Skills (6 credits), Liberal Studies (15 credits), Free Elective (2 credits)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited
- Accreditation from Higher Learning Commission
Location Advantages: Madison technology corridor with growing startup ecosystemAccess to Midwest tech hub with proximit to Chicago and Minneapolis marketsPartnerships with national laboratories and federal research fundingRecruitment pipeline from tech giants with significant Wisconsin operations
Milwaukee School of Engineering — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation (Engineering Accreditation Commission). Emphasis on defined software development process improvement
Hakia Insight: MSOE's ABET accreditation combined with embedded proximity to Rockwell Automation and GE Healthcare creates a rare pipeline where software engineering coursework directly mirrors the industrial automation and IoT problems students encounter in co-ops, compressing the typical onboarding gap.
The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering at MSOE develops engineering professionals with mastery of software development theory, practice, and process. The curriculum covers the complete software development life cycle, including requirements elicitation, architecture, design, construction, and verification. Students gain foundational knowledge in computer science fundamentals such as discrete mathematics, data structures, algorithms, computer organization, and operating systems. The program emphasizes engineering principles applied to software development, teaching students to work within defined software development processes to produce high-quality software predictably and efficiently. The program is ABET-accredited and reports a 100% placement rate for 2024–25 graduates, with all students either fully employed, enrolled in graduate school, or enlisted in military service within six months of graduation.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Rockwell Automation (corporate)
- GE Healthcare (corporate)
- Harley-Davidson (corporate)
- Johnson Controls (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Location Advantages: Milwaukee's strong industrial automation and medical device manufacturing ecosystemDirect access to employers in controls, IoT, and embedded systems sectors
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: Interdisciplinary program with customizable specialization tracks. Designed for transfer students and those with Associate of Applied Science degrees
Hakia Insight: UWM's 2.0 GPA admission threshold and explicit design for AAS transfer students unlock a pathway that traditional four-year programs don't advertise: community college graduates can stack an associate's degree with a specialized bachelor's track without losing credits or starting over.
The Bachelor of Science in Engineering at UWM is a new, interdisciplinary program launching Fall 2025, designed to provide flexible pathways to an engineering degree. Students select specialized tracks aligned with their career goals, including software engineering, embedded systems, engineering management, manufacturing, construction engineering, power engineering, and engineering operations and systems. The program is particularly suited for transfer students, those with Associate of Applied Science degrees, returning students, and working professionals seeking to advance their careers. The interdisciplinary curriculum maximizes credit transfer for efficient time-to-completion. Online courses will be available by 2026, and the college is developing concurrent enrollment opportunities with Wisconsin partner technical colleges. Graduates enter diverse career fields where interdisciplinary engineering skills are in high demand, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting faster-than-average growth for all engineering occupations.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Software Engineering Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Johnson Controls (corporate)
- Rockwell Automation (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Astronautics Corporation of America, Dematic, GE Healthcare, Intel, Microsoft, Milwaukee Tool, Northwestern Mutual, Quad, Rockwell Automation, Tesla.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0 minimum combined GPA. Application Deadline: Fall: March 15, Spring: September 15.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Major Milwaukee technology hub with headquarters of Johnson Controls, Rockwell Automation, and Epic SystemsUrban internship ecosystem spanning healthcare IT, industrial automation, and fintech
University of Wisconsin-Platteville — Platteville, WI
Key Distinction: Two capstone projects (Software Engineering Project I and II) providing hands-on software development experience. Real-Time Embedded Systems Programming course with practical applications
Hakia Insight: UW-Platteville's dual-capstone structure (two separate projects across consecutive semesters) combined with a dedicated Real-Time Embedded Systems course and John Deere partnership creates a production-grade portfolio advantage—most programs offer one capstone; Platteville graduates ship two.
The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering at UW-Platteville is a rigorous 120-credit program combining software engineering fundamentals with computer science and engineering principles. Students complete two capstone projects (Software Engineering Project I and II) that provide hands-on experience in real-world software development. The curriculum emphasizes software quality, object-oriented design, real-time embedded systems, and data communications. Students can specialize by selecting electives in artificial intelligence, machine learning, mobile application development, database design, or cybersecurity. The program allows students to pursue a minor or double major in Cybersecurity. The structured progression from foundational courses in programming and discrete mathematics through advanced software engineering tools and practices prepares graduates for software development roles in diverse industries.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Lab
- Material Fabrication and Nano Characterization Lab
- Software Projects Lab
- Industrial Internet of Things Testbed
- Huff Family Innovation Center
Industry Partners
- John Deere (corporate)
- Rockwell Automation (corporate)
- Regal Rexnord (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Wisconsin tech corridor with strong manufacturing and industrial automation presenceProximity to multiple Fortune 500 engineering firms
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay — Green Bay, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Green Bay's computer science program excels at personalized mentorship and student-directed learning pathways, allowing motivated students to construct a software engineering specialization within a flexible, collaborative academic culture.
Hakia Insight: UW-Green Bay's advertised strength—personalized mentorship and student-directed specialization—functions as a quiet asset for students who thrive with close faculty relationships but struggle in massive lecture halls, a demographic often invisible in ranking discussions.
At the bachelor's level, UW-Green Bay's computer science program—while not exclusively a software engineering degree—offers a flexible, student-centered approach that allows aspiring software engineers to design their own specialization track through careful course sequencing and project selection. The program's strength lies in its accessibility to hands-on learning: smaller cohort sizes mean students interact directly with faculty on research and applied projects rather than competing for lab seats in large lecture halls. Faculty expertise spans web development, mobile applications, data systems, and software architecture, and they actively involve undergraduates in research presentations and conference submissions. The program emphasizes both breadth and depth, requiring foundational computer science theory alongside practical software development skills—databases, web frameworks, testing, and version control are embedded throughout rather than treated as afterthoughts. Students have flexibility to pursue independent studies or directed projects aligned with industry interests, and the school maintains partnerships with regional businesses that occasionally sponsor student projects or offer internships. Green Bay's location creates unique opportunities for students interested in technology's role in sustainability and business operations; local companies often seek graduate talent for roles in data analysis, web systems, and business application development. The program's size and culture foster a collaborative rather than competitive environment, where peer learning and group projects are pedagogical staples. While the degree grants a computer science title rather than software engineering, the curriculum, when focused intentionally, delivers software engineering competencies and prepares graduates effectively for professional software development roles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Regional proximity to growing tech roles in healthcare IT and business operations
Wisconsin Lutheran College — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: A values-centered software engineering program in a liberal arts setting that prioritizes ethical practice, mentorship, and regional industry partnerships over scale.
Hakia Insight: Wisconsin Lutheran College's values-centered, name-basis mentorship model attracts a self-selected cohort uninterested in startup prestige, creating a regional hiring advantage with Milwaukee manufacturers and healthcare IT firms that prioritize ethical practice and stability over burnout culture.
At the bachelor's level, wisconsin Lutheran College's software engineering program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning within a close-knit liberal arts setting where faculty know students by name. The curriculum balances core computer science fundamentals with applied software development, giving students early exposure to real-world projects and agile methodologies. What distinguishes this program is its integration of ethical reasoning and professional responsibility alongside technical skill-building—a reflection of the college's values-centered approach to education. Students engage in capstone projects that often partner with regional businesses, providing portfolio-building experience and direct industry connections before graduation. The small cohort size means students aren't competing for lab access or faculty attention; instead, they benefit from personalized mentorship and custom learning paths. While Wisconsin Lutheran is primarily a residential liberal arts institution, its computer science and software engineering students enjoy access to modern labs and develop strong teamwork skills through collaborative projects. Graduates typically enter positions at mid-sized technology firms and established corporations across the Midwest, with many reporting that their interdisciplinary education—combining technical depth with communication and ethics—set them apart during hiring.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Software Engineering — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Milwaukee metropolitan area with regional tech and manufacturing sectors
Concordia University-Wisconsin — Mequon, WI
Key Distinction: AI & Quantum Innovation Lab. Scholar's Pathway for combined bachelor's/master's in 4 years
Hakia Insight: Concordia's AI & Quantum Innovation Lab partnership with Quantinuum and Oak Ridge National Laboratory—typically exclusive to PhDs—grants undergrads direct exposure to quantum computing applications, a specialization not offered at any other Wisconsin four-year program.
Concordia's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science blends liberal arts with technical instruction across 120 credits. The program features a Technology Core covering hardware, software, operating systems, databases, and coding, followed by specialization in four concentration areas. Students receive substantial flexibility in electives to customize their degree. The program includes an AI & Quantum Innovation Lab where faith and technology converge. A unique Scholar's Pathway allows completion of both bachelor's and master's degrees in 4 years with a 3.5 GPA requirement. Graduates are automatically eligible for alumni scholarships, saving up to $500 per credit on master's coursework. The curriculum emphasizes solving problems using technology and preparing students to create and manage technology solutions in an evolving landscape.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- AI & Quantum Innovation Lab
Industry Partners
- Santa Fe Institute (collaborator)
- Portland State (collaborator)
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (collaborator)
- Quantinuum (collaborator)
- IonQ (collaborator)
- U.S. Army Research Laboratory (collaborator)
- Expert Properties Group (employer)
- Regional oncology group (partner)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Michael Litman — Computer Science, Software Development, AI
- Prof. John Fields — Business Analytics, AI Innovation
- Dr. Aaron Armstrong — Industrial AI, Financial Engineering
Location Advantages: Milwaukee-area health systems and insurance companiesAccess to Wisconsin's diverse technology sectorsProximity to healthcare IT opportunities
Beloit College — Beloit, WI
Key Distinction: Beloit College offers comprehensive Software Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Beloit College's software engineering program serves a deliberately under-resourced regional market (south-central Wisconsin), giving graduates first-mover advantage in local hiring before national talent migration reaches the area.
Beloit College offers Software Engineering programs in Beloit, WI. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Carroll University — Waukesha, WI
Key Distinction: Carroll University offers comprehensive Software Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Carroll University's location in Waukesha positions students within Johnson Controls' corporate headquarters and nearby Rockwell Automation facilities, enabling same-day site visits and internships that eliminate the commute friction competitors face.
Carroll University offers Software Engineering programs in Waukesha, WI. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Lawrence University — Appleton, WI
Key Distinction: Lawrence University offers comprehensive Software Engineering programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Lawrence University's Appleton location anchors students in Wisconsin's paper-to-tech transformation corridor, where established manufacturing firms are actively recruiting software engineers to modernize legacy systems—a less glamorous but more stable market than coastal startup hubs.
Lawrence University offers Software Engineering programs in Appleton, WI. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Software Engineering Degree Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: Evening and online course options designed for working professionals. No thesis required – coursework-based track only
Hakia Insight: UWM's Master's program mandates no thesis and guarantees evening/online delivery to working professionals, while maintaining partnerships with Johnson Controls and Rockwell Automation headquarters literally within the metro area—rare among Part-Time master's programs that force students to choose between career continuity and degree completion.
UWM's Master of Science in Computer Science – Professional Track is designed for working professionals seeking rapid career advancement through industry-aligned skills and hands-on experience. The program offers evening and online course options to accommodate working schedules, allowing completion in as few as 24 months with 31 credits. No thesis is required; instead, students complete a capstone or can substitute professional work experience (internship/related work via Computer Science 999 or 789) with faculty approval. Six concentration areas include Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Database Systems, Image Processing, Medical Informatics, Programming Languages, and Theory & Algorithms. Graduate assistantships and employer partnerships shape curriculum to reflect current hiring needs. Median salaries for graduates range from $93,730 (Systems Analyst) to $151,150 (IT Manager), with 7-31% projected job growth. The program welcomes non-CS bachelor's holders with programming prerequisites and benefits from UWM's R1 research status.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science – Professional Track — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Software Engineering Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Johnson Controls (corporate)
- Rockwell Automation (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0 minimum combined GPA. Application Deadline: Fall: March 15, Spring: September 15.
Requirements: 31 graduate credits in Computer Science and approved electives, Capstone project or professional work experience (internship) in lieu of capstone with faculty approval, No thesis required, Up to 9 credits from approved non-CompSci courses (CEAS, INFOST, MATH, HI, BUS ADM, etc.), Option to switch to regular track after 9 credits of 700-level CompSci courses with 3.5+ GPA
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Major Milwaukee technology hub with headquarters of Johnson Controls, Rockwell Automation, and Epic SystemsUrban internship ecosystem spanning healthcare IT, industrial automation, and fintech
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse — La Crosse, WI
Key Distinction: Capstone project track (CS 798) addressing real-world problems with industry sponsors or cross-departmental collaboration—no traditional thesis required. Flexible capstone scheduling: students can register after completing 3 courses and distribute 12 credits across multiple semesters (max 6 credits/semester), enabling part-time completion while working
Hakia Insight: UW-La Crosse's capstone allows students to register after just 3 courses and distribute credits across 6+ semesters at 6 credits/semester, enabling engineers working 50-hour weeks at manufacturers to complete a 36-credit master's without semester-long course loads.
The Master of Software Engineering (MSE) at UW-La Crosse is a 36-credit program designed for working professionals seeking advanced expertise in software development and project management. The curriculum combines 24 credits of coursework (5 core courses + 3 electives) with a 12-credit capstone Software Development Project (CS 798) that addresses real-world problems in collaboration with industry sponsors or other departments. The capstone track emphasizes applied learning over traditional thesis research, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to practical software engineering challenges. The program accommodates working professionals through flexible project scheduling—students can register for the capstone after completing just three courses and distribute the 12 credits across multiple semesters. Core courses cover software engineering fundamentals, security, verification/validation, and project management. Electives span web development, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Graduates advance into senior software engineer, architect, and technical leadership roles; mid-career salary outcomes typically range from $110,000–$135,000 depending on specialization and region. The program accepts non-CS majors with 2+ years of professional experience, making it ideal for career-switchers. Completion typically requires 2–3 years part-time; no graduate assistantships or embedded professional certifications are mentioned in the catalog.
Programs Offered
- Master of Software Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- La Crosse Institute for Movement Science
- Strzelczyk Clinical Biomechanics Laboratory
Industry Partners
- NASA (employer)
- Amazon (employer)
- IBM (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
- Apple (employer)
- TikTok (employer)
- SpaceX (employer)
- Trane (employer)
- Epic (employer)
- Gundersen Health System (partner)
- Mayo Clinic (partner)
Notable Faculty
- Tom Kernozek — Biomechanics and movement science
- John Greany — Exercise and physical therapy
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.85 minimum GPA. Application Deadline: May 1 for fall, November 1 for spring.
Requirements: Complete 5 core courses (15 credits), Complete 3 elective courses (9 credits), Complete CS 798 Software Development Project (12 credits, minimum 2 semesters), Earn minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00, Submit project proposal to Project Evaluation Committee (PEC) before beginning capstone, Submit written project report and pass oral examination administered by PEC, Complete all requirements within 7 years of initial enrollment, Earn at least half of credits in 700-level or higher courses
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Growing tech corridor in upper MidwestProximity to regional manufacturers and digital startupsAccess to internships with La Crosse-area firms
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater — Whitewater, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Whitewater's software engineering program integrates industry-validated methodologies and Wisconsin business partnerships, creating direct pipelines to professional software development roles in the region.
Hakia Insight: UW-Whitewater's partnership ecosystem (Amazon, Epic, Google, IBM) combined with explicit regional pipeline positioning creates a meta-advantage: the program's reputation *within Wisconsin employers* often outweighs national rankings when hiring managers across the state screen candidates.
At the master's level, UW-Whitewater's software engineering program builds on a computer science foundation that emphasizes both theoretical rigor and applied skills development. The curriculum incorporates modern development methodologies, including Agile practices and DevOps, reflecting what students will encounter in professional environments. The program benefits from faculty with industry experience and a network of partnerships with Wisconsin-based technology companies, creating clear pathways from classroom to employment. Students engage in team-based software projects, often collaborating with business and computer science peers to solve real-world problems. The school's investment in modern computing facilities and labs supports hands-on learning across programming languages, frameworks, and cloud platforms. For students seeking to remain in Wisconsin or build careers in the Midwest, UW-Whitewater's strong local reputation and alumni network in regional tech sectors provide meaningful advantage. The program particularly excels at preparing software engineers for roles in enterprise development, where systematic design and communication skills are valued alongside technical depth.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon (employer)
- Epic (employer)
- Google (employer)
- IBM (employer)
- Northwestern Mutual (employer)
- American Family Insurance (employer)
- Acuity Insurance (employer)
- TDS (employer)
- Quad/Graphics (employer)
- QuadMed LLC (employer)
- JDA Software (employer)
- U.S. Cellular (employer)
- Charles River Analytics (employer)
- Diesel Forward Inc. (employer)
- Tormach (employer)
- U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (employer)
- Naviant (employer)
- Rock County (employer)
- Sentry Insurance (employer)
- The Little Potato Company (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Zach Oster — Department Chair & Associate Professor
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Strong ties to Wisconsin technology employersRegional reputation in Midwest tech communityAccess to enterprise software development opportunities
Concordia University-Wisconsin — Mequon, WI
Key Distinction: Three concentration tracks allowing specialization in Software Engineering, Information Systems, or Business Data Applications. Optional internship in IT (CPT eligibility)
Hakia Insight: Concordia's three concentration tracks (Software Engineering, Information Systems, Business Data Applications) compressed into 30 credits, paired with CPT internship eligibility and healthcare IT proximity, appeal to international professionals needing rapid U.S. work authorization and regional employment.
Concordia University Wisconsin's Master of Science in Computer Science prepares working professionals for advanced technical careers through a 30-credit curriculum emphasizing artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and software engineering. The program offers three concentration tracks: Software Engineering, Information Systems, and Business Data Applications. Students complete 18 credits of required technical courses covering ethical computing, AI, UX, security, and networking, then select 12 credits from their chosen concentration. The flexible structure accommodates mid-career professionals; optional internship opportunities are available. Graduates pursue roles as software engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, and technical project managers across healthcare, finance, government, education, and technology sectors. The program integrates Christian ethical principles with cutting-edge technology training, emphasizing responsible innovation and lifelong learning to prepare leaders equipped for rapidly evolving technical fields.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- AI & Quantum Innovation Lab
Industry Partners
- Santa Fe Institute (collaborator)
- Portland State (collaborator)
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (collaborator)
- Quantinuum (collaborator)
- IonQ (collaborator)
- U.S. Army Research Laboratory (collaborator)
- Expert Properties Group (employer)
- Regional oncology group (partner)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Michael Litman — Computer Science, Software Development, AI
- Prof. John Fields — Business Analytics, AI Innovation
- Dr. Aaron Armstrong — Industrial AI, Financial Engineering
Location Advantages: Milwaukee-area health systems and insurance companiesAccess to Wisconsin's diverse technology sectorsProximity to healthcare IT opportunities
University of Wisconsin-River Falls — River Falls, WI
Key Distinction: UW-River Falls treats software engineering as a true engineering discipline with emphasis on systems thinking, architecture, and cross-industry application, not as applied computer science.
Hakia Insight: UW-River Falls' distinction as a true engineering discipline—not applied CS—means students study software architecture and systems thinking alongside Midwest manufacturing partners, positioning graduates as systems engineers rather than coders in industries where that distinction commands premium roles.
At the master's level, the software engineering program at UW-River Falls is distinguished by its integration of engineering discipline with practical application in real-world systems. The curriculum emphasizes systems thinking and software architecture, preparing graduates who can tackle complex problems across industries—from manufacturing automation to data systems. Students engage with contemporary development stacks and methodologies through capstone projects that often involve regional employers, creating direct pathways to employment. The program's strength lies in producing well-rounded engineers who understand both the technical depth and the business context of software systems. Faculty maintain active engagement with the engineering community, ensuring course content reflects current industry standards and emerging technologies. For prospective students seeking a program where software engineering is treated as a rigorous engineering discipline (rather than computer science with applied focus), this school delivers that distinction.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Software Engineering — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Midwest manufacturing and industrial automation sector
