Top Nursing Schools in Wisconsin: Best Programs for Future Nurses
Why Study Nursing in Wisconsin?
Nursing is one of the most in-demand careers, offering job security, career flexibility, and opportunities for advancement. Wisconsin is home to some of the top nursing schools in the country, providing students with quality education, hands-on clinical experience, and specialized training.
Whether you’re pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), this guide will help you explore Wisconsin’s best nursing programs to launch or advance your nursing career.
Top Nursing Schools in Wisconsin
Best Nursing Schools in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison – School of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing is one of the top-ranked nursing programs in the Midwest, known for its rigorous curriculum, advanced clinical training, and research opportunities.
Program Highlights:
- BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs in nursing
- Early hands-on experience with simulation labs and clinical rotations
- BSN@Home program for RN-to-BSN students
- Accelerated BSN for students with a prior bachelor’s degree
- Research-driven faculty and cutting-edge nursing science initiatives
Clinical & Residency Opportunities:
- Affiliations with UW Health, American Family Children’s Hospital, and other top hospitals
- Rotations in diverse clinical settings, including rural and urban healthcare facilities
- Strong partnerships for nurse practitioner and advanced practice training
Scholarships & Financial Aid:
- Nursing-specific scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students
- Loan repayment programs for nurses working in underserved areas
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – College of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee College of Nursing is one of the largest nursing programs in the state, known for its innovative research and strong community partnerships.
Program Highlights:
- Traditional BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs
- Online and hybrid options for working nurses
- Partnerships with major Milwaukee healthcare providers
- Focus on community health and urban healthcare challenges
Clinical & Residency Opportunities:
- Clinical placements at top hospitals, including Froedtert Health and Aurora Health Care
- Opportunities for research in maternal health, gerontology, and mental health nursing
Scholarships & Financial Aid:
- Over 50 nursing scholarships available
- Graduate assistantships for MSN and DNP students
Marquette University – College of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Marquette University’s Jesuit-based nursing program focuses on holistic, patient-centered care and leadership development.
Program Highlights:
- Traditional BSN, Direct-Entry MSN, and DNP programs
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Nursing study abroad programs and global health initiatives
- Accelerated BSN for second-degree students
Clinical & Residency Opportunities:
- Partnerships with Children’s Wisconsin, Froedtert Hospital, and Milwaukee VA Medical Center
- Simulation labs with state-of-the-art technology
Scholarships & Financial Aid:
- Nursing-specific scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students
- Tuition discounts for nurses advancing their education
Edgewood College – Henry Predolin School of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Edgewood College offers small class sizes and personalized education, making it an excellent choice for nursing students who prefer a close-knit learning environment.
Program Highlights:
- BSN, MSN, and DNP programs
- Accelerated BSN for second-degree students
- Online RN-to-BSN program
Clinical & Residency Opportunities:
- Affiliations with hospitals and clinics in Madison and surrounding areas
- Emphasis on ethics, leadership, and community health
Scholarships & Financial Aid:
- Merit-based nursing scholarships
- Loan forgiveness programs for nurses in underserved areas
Concordia University Wisconsin – School of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Concordia University’s nursing programs are faith-based and emphasize compassionate care and service.
Program Highlights:
- BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP programs
- Flexible online and hybrid options
- Emphasis on Christian values in nursing
Clinical & Residency Opportunities:
- Clinical partnerships with local and regional healthcare systems
- Opportunities for mission-based nursing abroad
Scholarships & Financial Aid:
- Nursing-specific financial aid packages
- Faith-based scholarship opportunities
Viterbo University – School of Nursing
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Viterbo University in La Crosse offers strong nursing programs with a focus on ethics and leadership.
Program Highlights:
- BSN, MSN, DNP, and RN-to-BSN programs
- NCLEX-RN pass rates above the national average
- Leadership and service-oriented nursing education
Clinical & Residency Opportunities:
- Rotations in top hospitals in western Wisconsin
- Simulation labs for hands-on learning
Scholarships & Financial Aid:
- Merit-based nursing scholarships
- Financial aid for rural healthcare professionals
Choosing the Right Nursing School in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers a wide variety of nursing programs for students at all levels, from entry-level BSN degrees to advanced DNP programs. When choosing a nursing school, consider:
- Accreditation and NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Clinical and residency opportunities
- Specialized training options (pediatrics, geriatrics, critical care, etc.)
- Financial aid and scholarship availability
For students seeking large, research-focused programs, UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee offer exceptional education and clinical training. Marquette and Edgewood College provide personalized, ethics-driven programs, while Viterbo and Concordia University integrate faith-based nursing education.
No matter your nursing path, Wisconsin’s top nursing schools will equip you with the skills, experience, and credentials to succeed in the healthcare field.
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