10 Most Affordable Online Colleges in Wisconsin 2025

These affordable online colleges in Wisconsin have flexible programs and low tuition rates that make education more accessible for students and working adults.

Pursuing higher education has become increasingly accessible, especially for those seeking the cheapest colleges in Wisconsin. The state's reputable schools offer a variety of accredited online degrees that cater to diverse academic interests and career goals.

The best online colleges in Wisconsin offer high-quality education experiences, affordable tuition rates, and various financial aid options. Even if you're interested in going back to college, we've included the most affordable online colleges in our list as well.

List of the Cheapest & Most Affordable Online Colleges in Wisconsin

The schools listed below have affordable online programs that provide a reputable and comprehensive education.

1. University of Wisconsin?adison

The University of Wisconsin?adison offers online Bachelor of Business Administration degrees in management and human resources, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Tuition is $500 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students. The Office of Student Financial Aid connects students with funding opportunities and financial aid resources.

2. University of Wisconsin?ilwaukee

The University of Wisconsin?ilwaukee provides flexibility through self-paced and competency-based learning formats. They offer over 52 online degrees, including art history, biomedical sciences, and political science.

At this online school, full-time students pay $10,398 per academic year for bachelor's degrees and $12,728 for master's degrees. Students in both online bachelor's and online master's programs can access scholarships, grants, and federal work-study opportunities to further reduce tuition costs, making this one of the top 50 online colleges according to U.S. News & World Report.

3. University of Wisconsin?latteville

At the University of Wisconsin?latteville, online bachelor's programs are priced at $384.95 per credit hour, except for applied computing, which is $525. Distance learning students can major in subjects such as cybersecurity, marketing, and supply chain management.

Students can utilize federal and state financial aid, as well as other forms of financial assistance to reduce tuition costs.

4. Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University Wisconsin offers degrees in elementary and secondary education, healthcare, psychology, and computer science. Tuition is $725 per credit hour, but 100% of first-time undergraduate students receive financial aid through federal and state grants and scholarships, significantly lowering costs.

The university allows for up to 84 transfer credits. This can help students with associate degrees from technical colleges or other two-year schools save money and time on their degrees. Accelerated degree programs provide working adults with a convenient and fast way to advance their education.

5. Ottawa University?ilwaukee

Ottawa University?ilwaukee offers undergraduate degrees in various fields, including psychology, mathematics, and nursing. Online learning programs are $499 per credit hour and college students can utilize financial aid to reduce the cost even more.

The transfer credit policy allows for up to 80 college credits, reducing costs and helping students finish their degrees faster.

6. Alverno College

Alverno College's accelerated programs are $465 per credit hour and can be completed in three years or less. The faster pace of accelerated online courses provides an affordable and expedited path to degree completion. Financial aid, including grants and scholarships, can help students pay for their degree costs.

The college offers degrees such as a BSN, a Master of Social Work, and a doctorate in education leadership.

7. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University is one of the most affordable schools in the state, costing $307 per credit hour. They offer accredited and flexible distance education degrees in areas such as computer science, criminal justice, business management, and data analytics.

Admissions advisors can help connect students with all eligible financial aid resources. Rasmussen is a great school for working adults because of their partnerships with corporate companies that offer up to 20% off tuition rates.

8. University of Wisconsin?hitewater

At the University of Wisconsin?hitewater, in-state students can receive an online education that costs $409 per credit hour. To further reduce this cost, most students take advantage of financial aid which can be need-based, merit-based, or program-specific.

The university offers a diverse array of bachelor's degrees in areas like applied arts and sciences, accounting, and business analytics, among others.

9. University of Wisconsin?reen Bay

The University of Wisconsin?reen Bay offers a wide range of bachelor's degrees from anthropology and writing to organizational leadership and community health education. Wisconsin residents pay $348 per credit hour for bachelor's degree programs.

The university also has numerous graduate degrees, including cybersecurity, biodiversity, and health and wellness management. Online learners can also earn a doctorate degree in applied leadership.

10. Herzing University

Herzing University is another one of the Wisconsin online colleges that provides a convenient route to pursuing an affordable higher education. Similar to in-person on-campus programs, the cost per credit hour is $515. Herzing accepts financial aid in addition to providing their own scholarships.

Students can major in areas like behavioral health, business, and public safety, among many others. The self-paced courses are an accessible option for working adults, allowing them to balance their schedules and work at their own pace.

Our Selection Criteria

When selecting programs for this list, we focused on the following criteria in accordance with data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

Affordability: We prioritize low tuition rates and the availability of financial aid options.
Accreditation: All programs are accredited, ensuring they adhere to strict academic standards.
Financial aid: These schools accept financial aid and provide students with opportunities to save on costs.
Program quality: We evaluate the curriculum to ensure each program provides comprehensive and relevant coursework.
Support services: These schools have a variety of resources available for online students, such as financial aid assistance and academic advising.

How Much Does a Cheap College in Wisconsin Cost?

The cost of a cheap online college in Wisconsin will vary depending on the amount of financial aid you are eligible for. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $600 per credit hour for an affordable degree.

How Can I Make an Online Degree Affordable?

Earning an online degree is a valuable investment in your education and career, but it can be costly. To make it more affordable, consider these strategies and resources to achieve your educational goals without breaking the bank:

Seek Financial Aid: Explore federal grants, loans, and scholarships through FAFSA.
Choose Affordable Schools: Compare tuition rates and fees to find budget-friendly institutions.
Start at a Community College: Begin with cost-effective community college courses before transferring.
Use Free Resources: Utilize free or low-cost textbooks and online materials.
Employer Support: Check if your employer offers tuition assistance.
Part-Time Enrollment: Study part-time to manage tuition costs.
Consult Financial Advisors: Seek guidance from university financial aid advisors.

Different colleges provide a range of benefits that can help reduce tuition costs. Learn more below on how to make an online degree more affordable:

FAQs About the Cheapest Colleges in Wisconsin

Choosing the right affordable online college in Wisconsin involves considering factors such as financial aid availability, accreditation status, and admission requirements.

Which Cheap Online College in Wisconsin Gives the Most Financial Aid?

Financial aid offerings vary depending on many factors including state residency, household income, and degree level. Bachelor's degrees will sometimes offer more financial aid than master's programs.

Concordia University Wisconsin, for example, provides financial aid to 100% of first-time undergraduate students through federal and state grants and scholarships, significantly lowering tuition costs.

Are Cheap Online Colleges in Wisconsin Accredited?

Yes, many affordable online colleges in Wisconsin are accredited. For instance, the University of Wisconsin System's online programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This ensures that they are reputable and meet high academic standards.

If you plan to use financial aid to pay for your degree, it is important to ensure the cheap online college you enroll at is accredited.

What Is the Easiest Online College To Get Into in Wisconsin?

Admission requirements vary among institutions. Some public schools and non-profit colleges have more flexible admission policies, making them more accessible to a broader range of students.

Herzing University has a 94% acceptance rate, making it one of the easiest Wisconsin colleges to get into.

It's a good idea to check the specific admission criteria of each institution to determine which one best aligns with your qualifications. Admission criteria can include a high school diploma, a minimum GPA, and sometimes test scores when applicable.

How Much Can I Make With an Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Program?

The amount you can make after obtaining an online bachelor's degree depends on the field of study and the job market.

Graduates from accredited programs can pursue various career paths, some with salaries that are above the national average.

Find Accredited Online Programs Today

The cheapest online degree programs in Wisconsin offer a flexible and affordable pathway to achieving your educational and career objectives. With numerous accredited institutions providing a variety of programs, you can find an option that aligns with your goals and budget. Reach out to the school's admissions office and explore these schools' programs on Learn.org.