Wisconsin Computer Science Schools

According to the Scoring Tech Talent Report by CBRE, a major investment and commercial real estate firm, the tech talent labor force in Madison grew 10.6 percentage points faster in 2016 and 2017 than it did from 2014 through 2015. CBRE noted that tech companies continue to view Madison as a place to tap into quality talent.

There is also a growing demand for advanced industry jobs in Wisconsin — including those related to computer science and information technology. This tech-related workforce demand, especially in sectors like finance, insurance, and healthcare can be exciting for students pursuing programs at computer science schools in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin’s Technology Education Initiatives

The Badger State is home to a number initiatives that are intended to support the IT sector as well as increase enrollment in IT degree programs in Wisconsin. Let’s dive deeper into several of them:

• Promoting STEM education and careers: STEM Forward is an organization in Wisconsin that collaborates with businesses, educational institutions, and the community to promote STEM education and careers to students across the state. It offers scholarships, conferences, and a variety of special events.
• Improving the diversity of students who pursue STEM education: The POSSE STEM program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison partners with ten higher education institutions to increase diversity in STEM education and careers. Each year, a private foundation dedicated to advancing research in basic science and mathematics, awards POSSE STEM a $450,000 grant to support its continued growth and development.
• Incorporating STEM throughout a Wisconsin school district: The Janesville School District has spent $750,000 on implementing STEM initiatives throughout all grades. It strives to encourage high school students to pursue science programs or IT schools in Wisconsin after graduation.
• Exposing students to STEM careers: The University of Wisconsin-Stout hosts the Stout Connects You Science Festival to give high school students the opportunity to explore STEM careers and learn about STEM programs at the university.

Southern New Hampshire University

• Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
• Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
• Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access
• Offering over 200 online degree programs

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Purdue University Global

• Experience world-class education online with more than 175 programs at associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels.
• Apply eligible work experience and prior college credits toward up to 75% of your undergraduate degree.
• You have the option of trying out a Purdue Global undergraduate program for an introductory 3-week period. There’s no cost beyond the application fee.
• Competency-based ExcelTrack™ programs may allow you to earn your degree faster and for less money

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Best Computer Science and IT Colleges in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has more than a dozen different two- and four-year schools that offer either associate, bachelor’s, and/or advanced degree programs. Based on a review of the data, here’s a look at the institutions that may provide the best opportunities for computer science or IT students.

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Spotlight on Computer Science Schools in Wisconsin

Here’s a closer look at some of the noteworthy educational programs offered by computer science schools in Wisconsin:

• University of Wisconsin-Madison: At UW-Madison, students who pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Sciences can gain access to the university’s annual computer science career fair. This fair can provide opportunities for students to connect with prospective employers as well as participate in technical talks and information sessions.
• Wisconsin Lutheran College: Students in the computer science major program at WLC may benefit from the school’s small class sizes and one-on-one time with their professors. In addition to the core computer science curriculum, they can expect special course topics such as computer gaming and robotics.
• University of Wisconsin Platteville: The UW-Platteville offers a Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing. It is a 61-credit hour program and one of the only entirely online computer science degree programs in the state.
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire: At UW-Eau Claire, students may participate in the computer science honors program and enjoy exciting opportunities such as collaborative research with a faculty member.

IT Salaries and Career Outlook in Wisconsin

According to the Job Center of Wisconsin, occupations such as computer and information systems managers, software developers, and computer systems analysts are showing significant growth in the state.

Many large companies in the Badger State are searching for these types of IT professionals. A few examples of these companies include Johnson Controls, a leader in HVAC technology; Regal Beloit, a manufacturer of electric motors; Epic Systems Corp., an electronic health records company; and Rockwell Automation, an industrial automation provider.

2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov.

Computer Science Scholarships for Wisconsin Students

Scholarships can make computer science degree programs in Wisconsin more affordable. Here’s an example of some state-specific computer science scholarship available to eligible students. Some scholarships are specific to certain schools, but others are not.

• Helen Koepke Memorial Scholarship: This award grants $1,000 to a graduating senior in Wisconsin who hopes to pursue a degree in a business-related field. Computer science is considered one of the eligible business-related fields.
• Thermo Fisher STEM Scholarship: Incoming computer science freshmen at the University of Wisconsin-Madison can apply for this award if they’re interested in research careers.
• UW-Plattville Computer Science Scholarships: Two different awards are available to full-time students majoring in computer science or software engineering.
• Zonta Club of Milwaukee Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math: This scholarship is open to women who are majoring in a STEM field. While it isn’t school specific, applicants must either be living in or attending college in southeaster Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Professional Organizations and Resources

There are numerous professional organizations that may benefit technology professionals and students enrolled in IT degree programs in Wisconsin. Members can take part in learning and networking opportunities, as well as other resources that make help those who are pursuing careers in the tech field. Let’s look at a few of the Wisconsin organizations.

• Wisconsin Technology Association: The WTA aims to educate members on the latest concepts in telecom and technology, focus on the professional advancement of the field of telecom and technology, and provide a forum for members to discuss ideas and experiences.
• Wisconsin Technology Council: A variety of events such as the Wisconsin Tech Summit, Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference, and the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium are all hosted by the Tech Council. There’s also a strong emphasis on providing both both in-state and out-of-state networking opportunities.
• Wisconsin Educational Media & Technology Association: The goal of the WEMTA is to embrace individuals involved in the support, utilization, and integration of information, communication, and technology. It also strives to advance their efforts to improve student growth and achievement through a number of initiatives.