Best Online Community Colleges in Wisconsin
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Wisconsin's community colleges offer a diverse range of online associate degrees, catering to various fields such as business, education, technology, and especially healthcare, one of the most popular disciplines in the state. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), Wisconsin has 22 community colleges that offer associate degrees online as well as in-person.
Key Takeaways:
- Lakeshore Technical College boasts high median graduate earnings of $51,726.
- Milwaukee Area Tech College stands out with an enrollment of 3,526 online students.
- Northwood Technical College offers a remarkably low student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, placing it in the 96th percentile.
Below is our list of the best online community colleges in Wisconsin based on Salary Score and online enrollment. For details, check out our methodology. You can also explore our list of the best online universities in Wisconsin to take your education to the next level.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team ranks community colleges in each featured state using Salary Score, our proprietary measure of how graduates' earnings compare with those of students who earned the same associate degrees elsewhere. Using U.S. Department of Education earnings data, we compare each college's associate graduates with graduates of the same degrees nationwide, providing a degree-level perspective of financial outcomes rather than relying on institution-wide earnings.
When there isn't enough data to calculate a reliable Salary Score, we rank eligible schools by online enrollment, highlighting colleges with larger, more established distance-learning communities. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
Best Online Community Colleges in Wisconsin
| Rank | School | Salary Score | B | B | B | B | B- | B- | B- | B- | B- | B- | B- | N/A | N/A |
#3 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: SWTC excels in promoting successful outcomes for its graduates, as indicated by its commendable median earnings of $49,764, positioning it within the top 41% compared to similar institutions. Coupled with this financial promise is the institution's graduation rate of 61%, placing it within the top 28% of community colleges, signifying effective academic support. At SWTC, you can earn one of nine online associate degrees and 11 online certificates and technical diplomas. One of the school's most popular online programs is the associate degree in business administration.
#4 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: With hundreds enrolled online, Northwood Tech excels with a median earnings figure of $48,709 for graduates, placing it in the top 44% of institutions for salary outcomes. This earning potential is complemented by an outstanding student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, ranking it among the top 4% nationally, thereby ensuring a high degree of personalized attention and support. Additionally, the college offers extensive online degree programs, including associate degrees in fields like accounting, criminal justice, and early childhood education.
#5 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: MPTC has a fairly low student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, placing it in the top 23% of institutions for fostering a tailored, individualized learning environment. Additionally, we like that the school's retention rate stands at 79%, indicating that a significant proportion of students are satisfied and continue their education here. MPTC provides a range of online programs, including 31 associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships, predominantly offered online and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Noteworthy programs include degrees in accounting, business management, and health information technology.
#6 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: FVTC stands out for its strong online enrollment of 2,143 students, placing it in the top 21% of similar institutions. This impressive figure highlights the college's capability to effectively deliver quality education remotely. Another compelling benefit is the small student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, landing it in the top 17% of colleges for providing personalized attention. FVTC offers 26 online associate degrees and 30 online certificates and technical diplomas you can pursue. Among the school's more notable programs are online associate degrees in business management, business operations support, and criminal justice.
#7 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: Ranking 7th among the top online community colleges in Wisconsin, Western TC stands out for its promising median earnings of $46,926, which situates its graduates in the upper half of earners from similar institutions. Coupled with a low student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, you can expect close-knit academic support as an online student. Regarding online enrollment, 1,185 students study remotely. WTC has several online associate degrees and diplomas you can pursue. You can choose from offerings in accounting, business administration, leadership, hospitality, medical administration, and more.
#8 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: Nicolet has notable median earnings among graduates at $46,275, placing it nearly in the top half of schools nationwide. We believe this shows a strong return on investment for your education here. This is complemented by an exceptional student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, ranking it among the top 7% of schools, ensuring you receive personalized attention and support during your studies. Nicolet offers a diverse array of online programs, including associate degrees in fields such as business management, criminal justice studies, and nursing. Additionally, online technical diplomas are available in areas like cybersecurity and medical assistant.
#9 4.67 / 5 Overall Rating 100% Recommend 100% Helpful for Career Why we like them: GTC has a strong online presence, with online enrollment at almost 1,500 that places it among the top 28% of institutions. Notably, the school's student-to-faculty ratio stands at an impressive 8:1, ensuring you receive one-on-one attention. Furthermore, the retention rate is 81%, which situates it within the top 19% nationwide, indicating a high level of student satisfaction and commitment. The college offers a diverse array of online programs such as accounting, business management, and cybersecurity, catering to various career paths and interests. 1 Student Review for Associate Degrees Kyle, Graduated 2018 Overall Rating: 5/5 The criminal justice program at Gateway Technical College is an exceptional program. All of the instructors have been involved in law enforcement for a minimum of 5 years before being accepted as a teacher. The teachers are very friendly and always ready... Read More
#10 3.42 / 5 Overall Rating 67% Recommend 67% Helpful for Career Why we like them: MATC has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, situating it in the top 12% of educational institutions offering personalized academic environments. This ensures you receive significant individual attention, which can enhance your overall learning experience as an online student. Some of the 14 associate degree options include business management, accounting, graphic design, and healthcare services management. The school also offers an Associate’s in IT Network Specialist, an accelerated degree you can complete in 18 to 20 months, and a medical coding specialist diploma apprenticeship. 1 Student Review for Associate Degrees Michele Colvib, Graduated 2017 Overall Rating: 3/5 It was a little hard at first to get used to the online program, but after awhile it got easier. Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a sharply uneven experience shaped by strong instruction in some areas and serious organizational failures in others. Positive feedback highlights personalized support, instructors who take time to help, and hands-on learning that makes coursework engaging and practical. One reviewer also noted that the online format felt difficult at first, but became more manageable over time. Negative feedback centers on disorganized courses, delayed assignment grading, missing course materials, and limited instructor responsiveness. The most severe criticism involves poor advising, with one reviewer describing dismissive, disrespectful guidance that made the experience feel discouraging and unsupportive. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#11 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: NTC's strong showing in online enrollment is a testament to its robust digital presence, placing it among the top 24% of colleges with the highest number of online learners. Adding to this, an impressive 100% of students receive financial aid. As for online offerings, NTC provides an extensive range of programs available entirely online. You can pursue studies in fields such as business management, early childhood education, IT, and supply chain management, to name a few.
#12 4.0 / 5 Overall Rating 100% Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: Madison College's 20 years of experience in delivering online education places it among the experts in remote teaching. Plus, it hosts over 3,000 distance learners. You can pursue one of 17 online associate degrees. Subjects include supply chain management, web software development, early childhood education, marketing, finance, event management, and more. There are also 20 online certifications you can enroll in, such as American politics and government, business communication, real estate sales, and more. 1 Student Review for Associate Degrees Nicole, Graduated 2021 Overall Rating: 4/5 Madison College has a great culture and is highly diverse. Students, tutors, and professors work together cohesively to ensure students are getting the best academics experience. Tutors are awesome at this institution & they truly love what they do!!... Read More
#13 N/A Overall Rating N/A Recommend N/A Helpful for Career Why we like them: NWTC boasts over 2,000 students engaged in virtual learning. This places it in the top 23% of schools with the highest number of online learners. NWTC offers a variety of online programs across multiple disciplines. These include associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificates in areas like business, cybersecurity, and digital marketing. The school's commitment to practical, career-focused education is evident through programs that often incorporate internships and hands-on experience, ensuring that you gain not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills.
Student Reviews of Online Associate ProgramsI can't help but laugh at reading some of these reviews. Yes TCI may not be a perfect school but like anything in life you get out what you put in. I went to this school to meet a personal goal in my life, I did not need a job or a degree. I wanted to see if I applied myself academically what I can achieve, my GPA was a 3.85 and I found that if I put in the work, I got the result I wanted. As a self-employed business owner I have to say when I hire my employees it is not all based on academics. 80%... Read More Review Date: 12/22/2013 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No Since I have been attending UMA, I have been excelling in all of my classes. I believe I am excelling the way I am because of the precise instruction on assignments, and they give you every single thing you need to accomplish anything you want to accomplish! I LOVE UMA & RECOMMEND SIGNING UP TO EVERYONE! 馃挄 Review Date: 10/29/2024 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I cannot speak highly enough about my experience here at Ultimate Medical Academy and its exceptional healthcare management program. Throughout my online learning experience, I was fortunate to work with some of the most dedicated and inspiring instructors and advisors. Their unwavering support, knowledge, and encouragement made a profound impact on my academic journey. The faculty goes above and beyond to ensure students feel empowered and capable. Their expertise, dedication, and genuine investment... Read More A particularly meaningful part of my experience was in my general biology and sociology courses. During a time of personal grief, my instructors stood by me, offering encouragement and motivation when I needed it most. They pushed me to keep going, reminded me of my potential, and ultimately helped me succeed. Because of their support, I not only overcame challenges but excelled in both courses, earning an A in each. If you鈥檙e considering this college and the healthcare management program, know that you will be surrounded by compassionate educators who truly care about your success. Their dedication makes a difference, and I am incredibly grateful for the experience I鈥檝e had. Review Date: 4/16/2025 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I absolutely love the experience I鈥檓 having! This school has taught me so much and there鈥檚 more to learn, the school staff is wonderful and I can call anytime if I鈥檓 having any difficulties. They are always expressing gratitude and they always keep me motivated to continue in my courses. Tutoring is so cool! Everything you need is right at your fingertips! I love Ultimate Medical Academy and I hope you will too! Review Date: 12/6/2023 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I have been blessed to have found this school to get my associates in allied health studies! I would recommend anyone to do online because you can do it at your pace. I really like that I can be a full time mom and work a full time job and all fill get my education. Go Pumas! Review Date: 2/6/2024 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No My overall experience with UMA school online has been Amazing they give step by step instructions on how things need to be done and how to get it done. If ever you should run into a situation there is tons of support services, there to help you. and for the most part always available. At UMA they treat you literally as if you are family they are always checking in on me motivating me and to be honest a great support network. . Review Date: 7/20/2023 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No When I initially started looking for a college to attend, I noticed Bryant & Stratton. I spoke with the rep and I made it abundantly clear that I wished to pursue a career in the substance abuse field in Ohio. He recommended a program at their school. It sounded good to me so I started at Bryant & Stratton. Now that I wish to pursue my Bachelor's degree in my current field, I am told they do not offer that degree here. Why would you not tell me this from the beginning? I have maintained a 4.0 the... Read More Review Date: 9/27/2023 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No This college is truly one of a kind! You have so many people working day and night to support you in your academic and financial needs. You also have your own team who helps you with interviews and job placement if you choose to use them. I highly recommend Ultimate Medical Academy!! Review Date: 9/27/2020 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No Far too much BS, i am two classes in and both have been about ``university success``. I am trying to FURTHER my education, not regurgitate basic facts and learn about how others feel about the subject. As of now between the class i have finished and the class i currently take i have learned nothing new except how homosexuals and immigrants are different but equal, the current class broadening those groups to include everyone. I understand online college is understandably new and a work in progress... Read More Review Date: 8/3/2017 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No I was immediately welcomed with open arms and every teacher I had was understanding about any situation I was in, including a rotational deployment to Korea. I had to take two terms of leave to allow the TA in the Army to renew and the school was willing to allow me to take a longer amount if necessary. Every staff member was a pleasure to communicate with. Review Date: 3/21/2021 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I loved attending the distant learning vet tech program. I felt extremely well prepared to take the VTNE once I graduated and did pass the VTNE on my first attempt. I loved that this school had teachers available to answer questions. I also appreciated the semester based schedule and the deadlines on assignments and exams. I felt that was nice to help keep me on track with the program. The video portion of the program was difficult, but it is extremely doable. I am an extremely motivated person and... Read More Review Date: 3/13/2023 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No South is a Great school. A GREAT HIGH COLLEGE. The classes are challenging. They give you options to take 2 classes at one time every 5 weeks. The advisors are extremely helpful. I just love everything about South University. I am currently at the end of my program. Review Date: 7/14/2018 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No So far the classes have been okay. Some things I don't like is sometimes there is no constience. Example most online schools have all discussion boards due on a certain day to cause less confusion. At regent one class it may be due Wednesday and the other Friday. The price is a little higher compared to a lot of non profit schools. Most schools only charge one technology fee per school year not every semester. The technology fee is also outrageous at $300 a semester. Whereas most colleges are around... Read More Review Date: 1/18/2018 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I have been attending CHCP online courses for Healthcare Management in the Associates Degree program since January 2016, and I love it. I am a student who works full time and my job takes most of my time. But with attending online it's so flexible where I can still do my job and complete assignments on time. So far CHCP has been a great experience for me. Review Date: 2/25/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I think UMA was a great school. They really wanted their students to achieve a good education. Even after graduating the school Latasha helped answering questions for me about continue my education. When I attended the school I felt like they took the time to hear my concerns. I felt like all my questions even with financial aid was handled in a timely fashion. My advisor truly cared. If I had a question about an assignment. My instructors got back to me within 24 hours. I do feel like if you planning... Read More Review Date: 1/28/2018 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes This school is all about effort. If you want all of the information to be handed to you then look for another school. On a day to day basis, you should expect to put in around 3-4 hours of research in order to get the best out of this school. The other main consideration is that you will be completing your education entirely online. For me this worked out perfectly, but I can imagine for many people out there, it will be an extreme challenge to sit at your computer for the required amount of time.... Read More Review Date: 3/13/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes My experience with Ashworth college was awesome. I will recommend this school to any and everybody. You can move at your own pace and the payment plan is affordable. Everything is straight forward once you follow the instructions. I am very proud of myself for accomplishing this milestone in my life. Review Date: 8/17/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I enjoyed the school and the teachers as well as the student and plan to attend again. The school was very helpful in obtaining my goals and career change in life it prepared me for the life of professionalism in dealing with the public as well as management skills. Review Date: 9/21/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes The employees are not ethical. There is supposed to be free help for students with their lessons. On several occasions I was hit up for paid tutoring by student services. They really provide you with no help at all. Those who answer phones are rude and untrained. They don't like their jobs and you can tell. If you sign up for a course and cancel 6 days later, they take 40 percent of what you paid. What a rip off. I would never take another class from them. They certainly don't know how to treat their... Read More Review Date: 6/23/2013 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: Yes Zach Sallouha is the most helpful human. he is helpful and kind, he made sure to call and follow up every step of the way.i have never seen a person so dedicated to his job like Zach ................................................................................................................ Review Date: 5/25/2021 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No Related Articles |
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