Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Wisconsin

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 38 schools · Agent Insights

38

Schools Analyzed

$54,154

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

57%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,250

Avg. Net Price

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When considering graduate education in Wisconsin, prospective students often focus on programs that deliver strong outcomes. With 38 master's programs in the state, each offers unique advantages for students weighing their options carefully. Successful graduates from these programs earn an average of $54,154 annually, making it essential to choose wisely.

What sets the top programs apart are their impressive graduate outcomes, including earnings potential, graduation rates, net price, and student debt. In this ranking, you'll see how these metrics play a critical role in determining which schools provide the best value. The list below highlights schools that excel in these areas and offers insights into what you can expect after graduation.

For instance, the University of Wisconsin-Madison stands out with an impressive $73,792 in average earnings, paired with a solid 89% graduation rate. In contrast, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, while still a viable option, has a lower average earnings potential of $55,356 and a graduation rate of 62%. This shows how outcomes can vary significantly even among Wisconsin's top schools, making it important to dive deeper into each program's specifics.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 38

Avg. earnings at 10yr $54,154

Avg. graduation rate 57%

Avg. net price $20,250

Avg. median debt $23,032

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Wisconsin ranked by graduate outcomes

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI

Earnings$89,070

Net Price$22,453

View full profile →

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI

Earnings$73,792

Net Price$17,354

View full profile →

Marquette University

Milwaukee, WI

Earnings$78,257

Net Price$31,487

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

At the Milwaukee School of Engineering, students dive into a hands-on education that prepares them for careers in engineering and technology. With median earnings of $89,070 a decade after graduation, graduates are well-positioned in a competitive job market, reflecting the school’s commitment to practical skills and industry connections.

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI · 36,902 students · Public

With nearly 37,000 students, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a vibrant hub of learning and growth. The 89% graduation rate speaks volumes about the supportive environment that helps students succeed, whether they are pursuing research opportunities or engaging in campus life.

45% accepted 89% graduate $73,792 earnings

University's full profile

Marquette University

Milwaukee, WI · 7,660 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 82%, Marquette University in Milwaukee is a strong choice for students looking for a supportive environment to complete their degrees. The median earnings of $78,257 ten years after graduation reflect the value of a Marquette education, offering a solid foundation for a successful career.

81% accepted 82% graduate $78,257 earnings

Marquette's full profile

Beloit College

Beloit, WI · 926 students · Private nonprofit

Beloit College, located in Beloit, WI, is known for its commitment to liberal arts education and fostering critical thinking skills. The campus culture emphasizes creativity and engagement, attracting students who thrive in diverse learning environments and seek to explore a range of disciplines.

63% accepted 69% graduate $53,260 earnings

Beloit's full profile

Carroll University

Waukesha, WI · 2,523 students · Private nonprofit

Carroll University in Waukesha, WI, is a vibrant learning community that promotes a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on health sciences and liberal arts. With 2,523 students, it offers a variety of programs that cater to a diverse set of interests, making it attractive for those seeking a well-rounded college experience.

67% accepted 70% graduate $58,009 earnings

Carroll's full profile

Saint Norbert College

De Pere, WI · 1,662 students · Private nonprofit

Located in De Pere, WI, Saint Norbert College combines a strong liberal arts foundation with a rich campus life. The college encourages students to develop not only academically but also personally, offering a community where engagement and service are highly valued.

86% accepted 72% graduate $58,363 earnings

Saint's full profile

Maranatha Baptist University

Watertown, WI · 541 students · Private nonprofit

With a tight-knit community of just 541 students, Maranatha Baptist University in Watertown, WI, prioritizes a personal approach to education. The school emphasizes a Christian foundation, and its supportive environment fosters strong student relationships, which can enhance the college experience and academic success.

72% accepted 65% graduate $45,593 earnings

Maranatha's full profile

Ripon College

Ripon, WI · 688 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the charming town of Ripon, WI, Ripon College caters to around 688 students and champions a liberal arts education. The college promotes engagement through hands-on learning and encourages students to explore diverse fields, which can lead to a well-rounded skill set for future careers.

80% accepted 62% graduate $54,902 earnings

Ripon's full profile

Wisconsin Lutheran College

Milwaukee, WI · 943 students · Private nonprofit

Wisconsin Lutheran College, situated in Milwaukee, WI, serves around 943 students and emphasizes a Christ-centered education. The college fosters a sense of community and encourages students to make meaningful connections, both academically and socially, cultivating a supportive learning environment.

78% accepted 63% graduate $54,664 earnings

Wisconsin's full profile

Viterbo University

La Crosse, WI · 1,249 students · Private nonprofit

Viterbo University in La Crosse, WI, hosts approximately 1,249 students and is known for its commitment to service and community engagement. The university's emphasis on hands-on learning and connections with local organizations helps students apply their education in real-world settings, preparing them for their future careers.

72% accepted 67% graduate $55,660 earnings

Viterbo's full profile

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

La Crosse, WI · 9,277 students · Public

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse combines a beautiful setting with a supportive academic community. With a graduation rate of 71%, students often find that the university's emphasis on experiential learning fosters personal and professional growth, preparing them well for future endeavors.

76% accepted 71% graduate $60,378 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Eau Claire, WI · 8,895 students · Public

With a diverse student body of nearly 9,000, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire fosters a vibrant campus culture that's engaging and inclusive. The school's graduation rate of 66% reflects a supportive environment where many students find their academic footing and pursue successful careers after graduation.

82% accepted 66% graduate $58,561 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Whitewater, WI · 9,405 students · Public

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater offers an inviting campus atmosphere with a strong sense of community. Despite a graduation rate of 62%, many students thrive here, especially in programs that emphasize practical experience and leadership development, preparing them for the workforce or further studies.

86% accepted 62% graduate $55,356 earnings

University's full profile

Lawrence University

Appleton, WI · 1,396 students · Private nonprofit

Lawrence University in Appleton is home to a tight-knit community of just 1,396 students, which fosters close relationships with faculty and peers. Graduates earn a median income of $55,789 within a decade after finishing their studies, signaling a solid return on investment for attendees of this liberal arts institution.

64% accepted 77% graduate $55,789 earnings

Lawrence's full profile

Mount Mary University

Milwaukee, WI · 631 students · Private nonprofit

Mount Mary University stands as a beacon for female students in Milwaukee, fostering a strong sense of empowerment and community among its 631 students. With a graduation rate of 50%, there's a good balance of academic challenge and support for those who enroll, potentially leading them to fulfilling careers.

62% accepted 50% graduate $48,745 earnings

Mount's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

Green Bay, WI · 6,341 students · Public

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay offers a unique blend of academic opportunities and natural beauty. Although the graduation rate is at 50%, the school encourages a diverse range of perspectives, which can enrich the learning experience for students who thrive in collaborative environments.

89% accepted 50% graduate $52,528 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Platteville

Platteville, WI · 5,837 students · Public

University of Wisconsin-Platteville is home to around 5,800 students and has a friendly, accessible campus. The graduation rate stands at 58%, which highlights opportunities for growth and support for students aiming to reach their academic goals.

89% accepted 58% graduate $61,760 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Oshkosh, WI · 6,877 students · Public

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, with around 6,900 students, emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement. A graduation rate of 51% indicates that many students are still finding their paths, yet the supportive atmosphere can help them succeed in their academic journeys.

87% accepted 51% graduate $55,548 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Stout

Menomonie, WI · 5,842 students · Public

Nestled in Menomonie, Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Stout is known for its career-focused programs that align closely with industry needs. This public university emphasizes applied learning, which is reflected in its solid median earnings of $58,084 at ten years post-graduation, positioning graduates well in the job market.

88% accepted 54% graduate $58,084 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-River Falls

River Falls, WI · 4,205 students · Public

Located in River Falls, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls offers a student population of 4,205 and a graduation rate of 59%. While the completion rate may be lower than other schools, the median earnings of $54,458 ten years after graduation indicate that graduates can still achieve financial stability after their studies.

82% accepted 59% graduate $54,458 earnings

University's full profile

Edgewood College

Madison, WI · 1,107 students · Private nonprofit

Edgewood College in Madison gives students a chance to thrive in a close-knit environment, with about 1,100 students and a graduation rate of 64%. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education that prepares graduates to think critically and engage with the world around them, which is appealing for students looking for a holistic college experience.

76% accepted 64% graduate $59,728 earnings

Edgewood's full profile

Carthage College

Kenosha, WI · 2,660 students · Private nonprofit

Carthage College is nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, offering students a picturesque setting for their academic pursuits. With a relatively high acceptance rate of 87% and a graduation rate of 62%, the college fosters a supportive environment for students to thrive both academically and personally.

87% accepted 62% graduate $56,950 earnings

Carthage's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Stevens Point, WI · 7,306 students · Public

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, home to over 7,300 students, is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The campus embodies a strong sense of belonging, attracting students who value a collaborative learning environment and hands-on experiences that prepare them for real-world challenges.

92% accepted 53% graduate $52,021 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Parkside

Kenosha, WI · 2,844 students · Public

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside, with a student body of 2,844, faces challenges reflected in its 40% graduation rate. However, students here still find value, with median earnings of $51,129 after ten years. This public university provides opportunities for personal and professional growth, despite the lower completion rates.

75% accepted 40% graduate $51,129 earnings

University's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Superior

Superior, WI · 1,807 students · Public

At the University of Wisconsin-Superior, students find a close-knit community with just over 1,800 peers. This small public university emphasizes personalized attention from faculty, which can be a game-changer for students seeking tailored support on their academic journeys, despite a graduation rate of 43%.

93% accepted 43% graduate $49,606 earnings

University's full profile

Alverno College

Milwaukee, WI · 631 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Milwaukee, Alverno College emphasizes a student-centered approach to learning, allowing for individualized education and the development of critical skills. With a smaller student body of just 631, the college cultivates a close-knit community that is particularly beneficial for learners who thrive in intimate settings.

86% accepted 50% graduate $53,145 earnings

Alverno's full profile

Lakeland University

Plymouth, WI · 1,212 students · Private nonprofit

Lakeland University, situated in Plymouth, offers a well-rounded liberal arts education with a focus on preparing students for the evolving job market. The college’s acceptance rate of 86% and 48% graduation rate indicate a welcoming atmosphere that encourages a variety of students to pursue their academic goals.

86% accepted 48% graduate $55,961 earnings

Lakeland's full profile

Madison Area Technical College

Madison, WI · 10,073 students · Public

With over 10,000 students, Madison Area Technical College has become a central hub for vocational training in Wisconsin. The college excels in practical, hands-on education that equips students with essential skills for the workforce, making it a great choice for those looking to enter the job market quickly.

28% graduate $45,413 earnings

Madison's full profile

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI · 16,758 students · Public

With nearly 17,000 students, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a vibrant urban campus that reflects the diverse culture of Milwaukee. The university’s strong connection to local industries helps students gain practical experience and network opportunities, making it a solid choice for those looking to blend education with real-world application.

91% accepted 50% graduate $54,990 earnings

University's full profile

Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Milwaukee, WI · 837 students · Private nonprofit

At the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, students are immersed in a creative atmosphere that encourages artistic exploration. With a graduation rate of 65%, this school is well-suited for individuals passionate about the arts, who thrive in a vibrant community dedicated to fostering talent and innovation.

61% accepted 65% graduate $41,174 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

Marian University

Fond Du Lac, WI · 1,010 students · Private nonprofit

Marian University in Fond Du Lac has a welcoming community feel, with a student body of just over 1,000. The 43% graduation rate indicates that while some students find their path to success, many could benefit from additional support or resources during their studies.

75% accepted 43% graduate $53,501 earnings

Marian's full profile

Concordia University-Wisconsin

Mequon, WI · 2,197 students · Private nonprofit

At Concordia University-Wisconsin in Mequon, you'll find a vibrant community of nearly 2,200 students, with a notable graduation rate of 66%. This suggests a solid commitment to student success and a supportive environment for those pursuing their degrees in diverse fields.

78% accepted 66% graduate $56,075 earnings

Concordia's full profile

Bellin College

Green Bay, WI · 372 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on health sciences, Bellin College in Green Bay, WI, is dedicated to preparing students for careers in healthcare. The school’s small size—just 372 students—ensures that learners receive personalized attention and support from faculty, which can be crucial in demanding fields like nursing and radiologic technology.

97% accepted 68% graduate $76,222 earnings

Bellin's full profile

Herzing University-Kenosha

Kenosha, WI · 522 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 92%, Herzing University-Kenosha is designed for students who may appreciate a supportive environment. The school's focus on practical skills leads to a 63% graduation rate, indicating that many students find success in completing their programs and entering the workforce prepared.

92% accepted 63% graduate $36,909 earnings

Herzing's full profile

Herzing University-Brookfield

Brookfield, WI · 380 students · Private nonprofit

Herzing University-Brookfield offers a welcoming atmosphere with a 93% acceptance rate, making it an inviting option for students from various backgrounds. However, it does have a lower graduation rate at 41%, which may indicate that some students struggle to complete their programs, highlighting the importance of support systems for those who enroll.

93% accepted 41% graduate $36,909 earnings

Herzing's full profile

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

Wauwatosa, WI · 1,037 students · Private nonprofit

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa presents a unique option with a focus on career-oriented education, but it faces challenges with a graduation rate of just 22%. While the acceptance rate of 61% suggests some level of accessibility, this low completion rate may raise concerns about the support systems available to students.

22% graduate $32,568 earnings

Bryant's full profile

Herzing University-Madison

Madison, WI · 2,494 students · Private nonprofit

With a 94% acceptance rate, Herzing University in Madison welcomes a diverse group of students, making it a feasible option for those looking to start their educational journey. The school emphasizes career-focused programs, aiming to equip students for immediate employment in various fields. Although the graduation rate sits at 28%, many students appreciate the hands-on training and support they receive during their studies, which can lead to solid job opportunities post-graduation.

94% accepted 28% graduate $36,909 earnings

Herzing's full profile

College of Menominee Nation

Keshena, WI · 258 students · Private nonprofit

The College of Menominee Nation in Keshena offers a unique opportunity for students seeking a culturally rich educational experience. With a small student body of just 258, this school fosters close-knit connections between peers and faculty, which can enhance the learning atmosphere. While the graduation rate is 30%, the college's focus on Indigenous education and community engagement creates a meaningful context for students who value cultural heritage as part of their academic journey.

30% graduate $25,853 earnings

College's full profile

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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