2023 - Best Nursing Schools in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) is an independent, residential, nationally-ranked Christian institution, located in Milwaukee. It serves 1,200 undergraduate and graduate students either on campus and/or online. Its goal is academic excellence and a superior student experience with an view toward spiritual growth. Among the educational institutions in the state, the College stands out for its role in preparing nurses for their future careers with the requisite skills, knowledge, and values. It all takes place in a vibrant campus life. Its commitment to service-driven, community-focused graduates is widely known. In fact, former nursing students have become ambassadors for the profession and seek continuing graduate education. They are the leaders of tomorrow in the field.

The nursing program is designed for highly-motivated candidates who will continue on after graduation into a variety of roles such as gerontological and adult health, maternal and newborn health, child and adolescent health, community and mental health, and evidence-based practice. Early Admission is encouraged for this competitive program as it attracts the many who are interested in high-quality patient care who want to be at the forefront of the healthcare delivery.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Wisconsin Lutheran is for students engaged in a liberal arts education coupled with a strong science foundation. With this rich holistic background, they are in high demand. A variety of classroom, lab, and clinical settings provide exposure to diverse and vulnerable patient populations. The nursing simulation lab is state of the art and the heart of the program’s hand-on experience. Critical thinking is fostered along with great communication skills so that graduates can enter the workforce ready for any scenario, including collaborating with an inter-disciplinary team. They are well versed in therapeutic communication and able provide education to patients, families, and communities.

The nursing programs at Eau Clarie College of Nursing consists of traditional and BSN-Completion options along with MSN and DNP programs for those with a bachelor’s degree in another field. Students, both graduate and undergraduate, experience collaborative learning and conduct research with the faculty. The college focuses on hands-on training through clinicals and practica. A baccalaureate and master’s degree in nursing are offered as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Students in accelerated programs receive the same number of clinical hours as do their standard BSN counterparts. The school is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CNE). Flexibility is standard with the BSN for working professionals, who can attend campus classes or go online. The mission of the college is to promote diversity within the student body and faculty. The accelerated program offers a faster degree for those with a non-nursing background desiring a career change. It is also ideal for an LVN with some training. Graduates will have the training and skills to complete the NCLEX-RN exam and work in most any clinical setting.

Carroll University believes that college is a big investment in a bright future. The nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the department of nursing is approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing. It leads to a bachelor’s degree, preparing students for their role in the burgeoning healthcare industry whether providing direct care or working as an administrator.

RNs – now one of the most sought-after professions - work in hospitals, physician offices, home healthcare services and nursing care facilities. There are opportunities in research, leadership or education. The ADN program will admit qualified students regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, or handicap (that does not interfere with the performance of professional nursing as provided by law).

The BSN program provides students with the science and interpersonal skills as well as practical experiences needed to succeed in any nursing career. The program covers all the basic nursing skills. As a form of simulation-based education, it entails working in clinical settings. Students can chose to focus on areas such as medical-surgical, pediatric, palliative care, psychiatric or intensive care. Carrol University prides itself on its supportive environment and hands-on learning guided by faculty. Classes are held in the nursing center at the United Community Center (UCC) in Milwaukee. It includes a modern, fully-equipped nursing lab with high-tech patient simulators that help students safely learn procedures before performing them on real patients.

Graduates can be expected to have direct responsibility for planning, managing and administering care for a two-to three-patient load. The student’s education culminates in a capstone experience of working 160 hours in a healthcare setting at one of southeastern Wisconsin’s best health systems or one of your choosing. Carroll’s strong partnerships with local healthcare organizations allow for a variety of clinical placements without waiting lists. Internships are also available. You can continue on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree if desired. Carroll has a history of providing an excellent nursing education and exceptional student outcomes, including top pass rates on the national licensing exam. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is also available with preference given to bilingual candidates from all backgrounds. Cross-cultural experiences are promoted including travel and international missions.

Bellin College has the lofty goal of preparing healthcare leaders to meet the challenges of the future. Its motto is “A career in nursing promises a GREAT future!” It reputation is stellar for creating a strong bachelor’s program for a career in the healthcare sector. On campus in Green Bay Wisconsin, students enjoy the high-quality facilities to develop the knowledge, skills, and clinical experience needed to succeed in a competitive field. They are trained leaders who hope to help and heal. The program aims to produce nursing role models ready for community service and continued education.

Students can choose among multiple specialties in collaboration with seasoned professionals. As such, they are positioned to enter a diverse, global society and able to advance the practice of nursing. After or along with general education courses, students begin their nursing program, where the latest technology is available. Of note, 120 credits are required for the BSN degree. Many graduates move on to the MSN and DNP degree programs. The baccalaureate and master’s degree program in nursing and the several post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Bellin College are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Bellin College has gained wide respect for producing students with great clinical judgment. The standards are high in fusing a general education and the nursing specialty. All students gain effective communication skills required in the provision of nursing care. The hallmark of the BSN is exposure to various healthcare settings and professional roles. Every student understands the principles of health promotion, disease and injury prevention, illness and injury management as they pursue a population-focused approach to nursing practice.

If you have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field or have LVN experience, you can earn your BSN quickly in this accelerated BSN program in nursing. It has been designed for those seeking a career change as it can be done with expediency. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, graduates are in high demand and enter the many growing, rewarding professions offered to a registered nurse.

Nurses are in high demand, so within twelve months, the hybrid nursing program will place you in good stead with the right educational background. The program has been well honed and now encompasses extensive components. Plus, it can be done online or on campus per the student’s schedule with clinical rotations completed in the community.

UW Oshkosh’s undergraduate nursing program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). It has an attrition rate of less than 1%, and the first-time NCLEX pass rates consistently exceeds the national average. Although the coursework requires some independent study, the rigorous courses are closely guided by their instructor and always in a highly structured online learning environment. Of note, students typically spend 8-12 hours on coursework each day.

Maranatha Baptist University has had the mission to develop leaders in the local church and the world for five decades. Students have a ministry mindset; the classes are faith-based with a biblical core. The nursing vocation is a definite priority. Graduates will apply their talents to serving God and others. While studying, enrollees are engaged in Christian service.

The nursing program is designed to position graduates for a potential career fields such as Nurse Practitioner, Critical Care Nurse, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, and Public Health Nurse. Compassionate nurses are in high demand in an aging society. Competent practitioners are needed worldwide in the healthcare system. Future roles may vary from a major metropolitan hospital and home health center to an African village clinic. Over one thousand hours of clinical experience in local hospitals and healthcare facilities result in skilled graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The school has been lauded for its excellent holistic preparation for a career with the requisite knowledge, skills, and dispositions. Students are known to be compassionate and competent in any setting.

There are many benefits to the BSN program. Students develop the ability to use their critical thinking to make sound clinical judgments. They are well versed in nursing science, evidence-based practice, liberal arts knowledge, and a biblical worldview. As such, graduate nurses are a paradigm for religious practice. They are adept at therapeutic communication and can effectively converse with clients, families, and the healthcare community. Plus, they have learned to coordinate client-centered, collaborative care using various secular and faith-based resources. Their managerial skills achieve quality outcomes as they advocate for excellence in the field. Overall, students demonstrate responsibility and accountability within a biblical worldview. They are encouraged to engage in community involvement to enhance their spiritual and professional growth and development.

There are a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs at Alverno College, a Franciscan liberal college for women located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The school dates back to its founding in 1887. It is sponsored by the School Sisters of St. Francis and boasts over 17,000 alums across the globe. Among many options, enrollees can enter choose pre-professional courses in health, pharmaceutical science, kinesiology or public health; or they may enter the MSN program in nursing and healthcare. A doctor of Nursing Practice takes graduates to another level.

For more than 100 years, Alverno College has been dedicated to the career needs of women (although men are accepted). The school  has developed a reputation as  a leader in educating students and imparting its culture of collaborative learning. Students maintain that attending is not about school; it is about life. While pursuing an academic degree, they develop life skills. The vision of the school at founding was to be the leading Catholic, Franciscan college poised with passionate and principled leadership to transform education and help graduates engage with the world. A supportive environment and powerful combination of liberal arts and career readiness yields graduates ready for their future roles in healthcare.

Alverno is a known pioneer in education and a technology-rich center for clinical education. As evidence of its trailblazing approach, the JoAnn McGrath School of Nursing and Health Professions has been training highly skilled caregivers since 1932. This fully-accredited program offers an array of programs. In fact, it as one of the largest nursing schools in Wisconsin preparing graduates for clinical placements.

Mid-State Technical College is a regional college in the Wisconsin Technical College System with multiple campuses. Associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificates are offered in various career fields, including nursing. The goal is to provide a supportive and caring learning environment with state-of-the-art technology taught a professional faculty. Graduates are ready to enter the workforce with real-world skills, technical training, and extensive experience. Mid-State Technical College offers the two-year program of courses on the Marshfield, Stevens Point, and Wisconsin Rapids campuses beginning in the fall or spring. Students can transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree.

Mid-State prides itself on customized training and the technical assistance designed to meet the unique goals of the workplace. The school seeks to help central Wisconsin businesses recruit, develop, and retain a highly skilled workforce with on- or off-site employee training programs. Working closely with business, industry, nonprofits, and community partners, the schools intends to meet the workforce challenges in the district. Workforce Advancement Training (WAT) grants are available to established businesses to upgrade the skills and productivity of their employees. Administered by WTCS, the objective of the grants is to support regional workforce and economic development efforts.

The nursing program is a standout and takes place within a variety of settings. students are well versed in decision making and go on to provide compassionate skilled care to individuals, families, and communities. They are trained to collaborate with a variety of healthcare professionals and interpret important patient information. Confidence is gained in the school’s state-of-the art Healthcare Simulation Center where patient care is practiced in a realistic environment. Each patient presents a different situation and new decisions to make. Graduates pride themselves on being multi-tasking experts. In fact, they are the backbone of the industry.

Fox Valley Technical College® is a two-year public college in Appleton and Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Locals consider the college of choice for hands-on learning and high-tech occupational training to enter today’s workforce. The program integrates social, mathematical, and physical sciences, pharmacology, and pathophysiology in clinical decision making. Whether you’re preparing for a new career or sharpening your job skills, you are encouraged to attend and put your career on the fast track.

Nurses are in high demand, and our students find employment at the rate of 93% within six months. While covering the basic fundamentals to the latest procedures and technology, our RN Associate degree prepares you to work as a registered nurse. You’ll learn to provide care to people of all ages with common physical and mental health problems. There is plenty of hands-on experience with a wide range of clinical skills, health assessments and medication administration.

In addition to the significant emphasis on patient care, students will learn the drug classifications and their effect on the body. Another goal as to promote healthy lifestyles. Throughout their training, students practice critical thinking in a variety of clinical contexts along with leadership and team building. They develop accurate communication skills, preparing them to work effectively in a variety of environments, including diverse patient populations. Upon completion, graduates have earned an Associate in Applied Science (AAS). Of note, the accredited courses are easily transferred.

The program has been historically successful. Graduates have the integrity and ethical standards to become responsible nurses committed to evidence-based practice, caring and advocacy with quality patient-centered care. The nurse graduates form part of or lead multi-disciplinary health care teams and participate in system effectiveness. They use the latest information and technology in the field to communicate, manage date, mitigate harm and error, and support general decision-making.

Waukesha County Technical College is located in Pewaukee, Wisconsin.  They offer an ADN program and an LPN to RN progression option.  Their progression option is reserved for Wisconsin LPNs - students most hold an LPN nursing license in order to enroll.  The LPN also must pass LPN Progression Transition Success Strategies course prior to entering the program.

As a leader in regional and global education, Waukesha County Technical College has been proficient in supplying a diverse workforce for a century. The College has over 150 areas of study, including the coveted Nursing Associate Degree, obtained after two years of coursework, with a start date of either August or January. The program is ideal for those with solid background in science who relish enjoy caring for others with empathy and compassion. Related programs are available for a surgical tech and nursing assistant along with cutting edge continuing education and a variety of certificates. The associate degree nursing program at the Pewaukee Campus is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

WCTC believes that nurses are key to the healthcare team. Thus, their diverse degree program yields caregivers, educators and patient advocates. Licensed nurses work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities or on the business side. Enrolled students meet the established technical standards required for employment. Graduates with comprehensive training exhibit high skills and are ready for a variety of roles: Staff Nurse, Charge Nurse/Supervisor Public Health or School Nurse, Forensic Nurse, Home Care Nurse, and Nurse Educator. Of note, WCTC offers numerous transfer agreements with four-year colleges and universities. In addition, there are fast-track programs for paramedics and licensed practical nurses. A dual high school program and acceptance of former credits means great expediency in obtaining a degree.

The College prides itself on having business leaders as key partners. More than 700 business professionals serve on WCTC’s advisory committees, ensuring that the classroom reflects the latest industry needs. It also boasts of instructors with impressive credentials and work histories. The result is a comprehensive and personalized education. Students enjoy a realistic clinical practice in the high-tech Human Patient Simulator (HPS) Lab while developing a variety of hands-on skills in the Nursing Skills Lab.

Milwaukee Area Technical College is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They offer an RN program and an LPN-RN Educational Progression program.  Students opting to apply to the LPN-RN program should know that at least one year of LPN experience is required.  The program begins in August and January each year.

If you are enrolled in the registered nursing (RN) program at MATC, theory and lab courses at the Downtown Milwaukee Campus, Mequon Campus will be the foundation of your clinical practice. Students can conveniently chose to take BSN courses concurrently with their two-year associate degree for faster advancement.  They will enjoy advanced simulation and guided practice in clinical settings that will prepare them to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) after receiving this Nursing Associate Degree.

There are several related programs such as the practical nursing technical diploma; plus the Associate in Applied Science program transfers to many four-year institution. Students have experienced success after learning the ethical components of the career and how to communicate effectively. They can make evidence-based clinical decisions while minimizing any risk of harm. They experience the use technology to manage data and support clinical decisions.

Given their exposure to a variety of classroom and clinical settings, graduates are prepared for employment in nursing homes, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. Nursing Assistant training is required prior to petitioning for this program. If you are a licensed practical nurse interested in furthering your career as a registered nurse, this program has been designed for you. In addition, your work experience may earn you advanced-standing credits.

Lakeshore Technical College is the go to place for students seeking an Associate Degree. It is done over seven terms and 65 credits. This Wisconsin college is proud to make education accessible to everyone in all walks of life and at any age. LTC is a proud member of the community and serve it through classes, special events, or other services. Their mission is to provide a quality education for a variety of careers. The coursework is also designed to provide customized training for company employees as well as adult education and professional continuing education.

Nursing is one of the many options available on campus. The Associate degree Nursing Program at Lakeshore Technical College at the Cleveland campus is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Students are prepared for their future careers as registered nurses able to function skillfully in a wide variety of healthcare settings. The holistic program pertains as much to infants as the elderly. All populations need healthcare.

Students enjoy theory and lab courses in the school’s state-of-the art Clinical Skills lab, where the foundation for clinical practice is established and implemented. Students undertake extensive real-life training in providing care for patients throughout Sheboygan and Manitowoc counties. The College curriculum matches the requirements for the preparation and examination for state licensure.

NTC offers a wide variety of programs with associate degrees, technical diplomas and certificate options in many career fields. Students can choose agriculture, food, manufacturing, finance, natural resources, architecture and construction and health science. Also available are arts, AV technology and communication, hospitality and tourism, business management and administration, information technology, human services, and science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In addition, there are programs in law, public safety, corrections and security, transportation, distribution and logistics, or education and training.

Students can avail themselves of courses on the six campuses in north central Wisconsin or online. There is great flexibility in the NTC Connect Program. If a student chooses to attend a campus class, many are offered at Wausau, Antigo, Medford and Philips. The program understands that nursing is the dynamic interpersonal, goal-directed process with the aim of promoting optimal health for individuals, family, community and society. Thus, the Nursing-Associate degree prepares students for the goals central to the profession. In action and attitude, they demonstrate problem solving and communication skills along with the basic knowledge needed to succeed.

Students follow a holistic care program that enables a skilled assessment of a patient’s health. They learn to make clinical decisions and provide safe and effective nursing care in accordance with standard practice within prevailing legal, ethical and regulatory frameworks. After absorbing a vast body of knowledge, these future nurses of tomorrow will collaborate with other health care professionals, showing skill and compassion. The degree produces nurses responsive to the needs of the community across the vast health-illness continuum.

Nicolet Area Technical College is located in Rhinelander, Wisconsin.  They offer an ADN program and an LPN to RN bridge option.  Nicolet Area Technical College originated in 1967, with its first classes being offered in January of 1968.

Moraine Park Technical College is located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  Their nursing program is an "associate degree with a practical nursing exit point."  The first two semesters prepare the student for a career as a practical nurse; at that point, the student may choose to exit the program and begin their career.  They can also continue for further education and earn their associate's degree.

Moraine Park Technical College in Wisconsin has several locations. Students seeking a full-time nursing program flock to the West Bend Campus. The Nursing-Associate degree is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Upon completing two semesters and passing the National Council Licensure Exam to become an LPN, graduates may become a staff or primary nurse or practice specialized nursing. Students can also complete the full four semesters, earn an associate degree in Nursing (ADN) and seek employment as RNs. All students find the hands-on classroom instruction, laboratory practice and clinical nursing experience to be fulfilling and productive. The MPTC Nursing program can be done on campus or off site. In each case, each student will undergo a clinical and practicum program.

Graduate nurses reflect the school’s focus on integrity, responsibility, ethical practices. Students develop a professional identity and exhibit training in evidence-based practice, caring advocacy and quality care. In addition, they demonstrate the required written, verbal, and nonverbal communication mandatory in the field. The coursework integrates the social, mathematical, and physical sciences, pharmacology, and pathophysiology in clinical decision making.

Graduates go on to provide patient centered care by utilizing the nursing process across diverse populations and healthcare settings. They are highly regarded staff members, promoting safety and minimal risk. With an eye on system effectiveness, they may lead a multidisciplinary healthcare team to provide effective patient care. Of note, they are able to use information and technology to communicate, manage data, mitigate error, and support decision-making.

Blackhawk Technical College is located in Janesville, Wisconsin.  They offer an ADN degree.  They also offer an LPN progression program, which allows the LPN to advance their degree.  The LPN must take a bridge course prior to enrollment, but then is able to join the other students in the third semester of the program.

Blackhawk Technical College is the place for a career pathway certificate. In fact, there are over 50 innovative programs, including nursing, with flexible learning options and real-world training. The facilities are first rate and the equipment high tech. New and returning students are encouraged to apply and begin their journey to a rewarding career.

The Wisconsin State Board of Nursing has deemed our program to be exceptional due to the world-class program and experienced faculty. Students learn how to deliver quality patient care in a variety of settings. The four-semester program includes classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences. Students can choose to progress at a full-time pace or take classes on a part-time basis either on campus or online (including video conferencing) or a combination of both. For online students, in-person proctored testing or assessment may be required. Lab time is flexible.

Of note, students can mix and match options. If a class does not meet face-to-face weekly, online work may be required to be completed between class meetings. Upon graduation, graduate nurses find jobs in acute care, long-term care, or community health care. Following the first two semesters of courses, student nurses can take the examination to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

Financial assistance is available to those who qualify through the Nancy B. Parker Scholars program for high-achieving students in the BTC nursing program. First-year students may be eligible for a $1,000 maximum award with an opportunity for an additional $1,500 in year two. The Blackhawk mission is to provide opportunities for busy students with hectic schedules. Whether you are searching for an online class, a flexible lab schedule, or face-to-face courses, we will do everything possible to accommodate your needs.

Founded in 1912, NWTC has over two hundred programs. It is a nationally-recognized, two-year public college, serving nearly 27,000 students each year and helping them attain degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Three main campuses populate the five state regional centers and most counties. Other specialty centers are throughout northeast Wisconsin. Student success is the hallmark of the college’s mission. It seeks to be a vital part of the community and inspire the diverse people of the area to enter the workforce. In short, the motto is “We believe that everyone can soar higher.”

NWTC is a sought-after educational institution for the nursing profession. Here students learn that they can make a difference in patients’ lives by planning, evaluating, and providing compassionate care. Many find a roles a supervisor of other healthcare staff. The ADN program provides sufficient preparation akin to that of four-year colleges and universities. Of note, graduates score high on their exams and gain job replacement quickly. T

They are exposed to classroom, lab and simulation instructive followed by extensive clinical experience at hospital, extended care facilities and clinics in the area. They may elect to pursue service opportunities for hands-on patient care such as working at the N.E.W. Clinic at NWTC. The program in the health sciences is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and includes medical, dental, emergency, and business applications.