Top Nursing Schools in Wisconsin for 2025

🏥 Top Nursing Schools in Wisconsin (2025)

1. University of Wisconsin–Madison

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 96% (2023)
• Tuition: $10,722 (in-state); $39,354 (out-of-state)
• Programs: Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, DNP, PhD
• Graduation Rate: 87%
• Highlights: Offers both traditional and accelerated BSN programs with a strong emphasis on research and global collaborations.​

2. University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 99.7% (3-year average)
• Tuition: $8,909 (in-state); $17,621 (out-of-state)
• Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
• Graduation Rate: 65%
• Highlights: Recognized for high employment rates post-graduation and opportunities for study abroad.​

3. University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 96.69% (3-year average)
• Tuition: $7,754 (in-state); $15,328 (out-of-state)
• Programs: BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, Graduate Certificate
• Graduation Rate: 56%
• Highlights: Offers a variety of programs with high certification pass rates and employment outcomes.​

4. University of Wisconsin–Green Bay

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.44%
• Tuition: $6,298 (in-state); $14,516 (out-of-state)
• Programs: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, Nursing Leadership Certificate
• Graduation Rate: 55%
• Highlights: Provides diverse pathways into healthcare with a focus on leadership and management.​

5. Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE)

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 100% 
• Tuition: $50,358
• Programs: BSN, MSN, PGC APRN
• Graduation Rate: 78%
• Highlights: Known for hands-on clinical experiences and high employment rates post-graduation.​U.S. News

6. Marquette University

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 94.8% (Direct Entry MSN, 2023)
• Tuition: $45,860
• Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
• Graduation Rate: 81%
• Highlights: Offers a range of programs with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and leadership.​

7. Viterbo University

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 93.29%
• Tuition: $14,700
• Programs: BSN, DNP
• Graduation Rate: 61%
• Highlights: Emphasizes values-based education with opportunities for study abroad and ROTC programs.​

8. University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 95% 
• Tuition: $9,610 (in-state); $21,474.60 (out-of-state)
• Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
• Graduation Rate: 49%
• Highlights: Offers extensive clinical partnerships and a variety of nursing programs.​

9. Carroll University

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.11% (BSN, 2024)
• Tuition: $39,810
• Programs: BSN, ADN, MSN
• Graduation Rate: 59%
• Highlights: Known for high NCLEX pass rates and comprehensive nursing programs.​

10. Alverno College

• NCLEX Pass Rate: 92.45% (3-year average)
• Tuition: $45,180
• Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
• Graduation Rate: 53%
• Highlights: Offers an abilities-based curriculum with a focus on applied learning and clinical practice.​

🎯 Choosing the Right Nursing School

When selecting a nursing program, consider the following factors:

• Location: Proximity to home, clinical sites, and potential employers.
• Tuition and Financial Aid: Evaluate the cost and available financial support.
• NCLEX Pass Rates: Higher pass rates often indicate strong academic preparation.
• Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the specific nursing program you seek.
• Graduation Rates: Higher rates may reflect better student support and program effectiveness.

For more information on nursing programs and job opportunities, visit GoodWork World.