What Is It Known For?
The Wisconsin Technical College System has a rich history dating back over a century. Established in 1911, it was the first state to create a network of technical education institutions, originally called the State Board of Industrial Education. Over the decades, it grew and expanded, ultimately being renamed to its current title in 1993. Today, it stands as the largest higher education system in Wisconsin, with over 16 technical colleges and 50+ campus locations scattered across the state.
Each year, the Wisconsin Technical College System enrolls an impressive 280,000 students in its programs. It offers a diverse array of over 500 associate degrees, technical diplomas, and short-term certificate options across various fields.
Degrees & Certifications
The Wisconsin Technical College System provides a wealth of educational options across its 50 campus locations. With over 500 programs available, you’re likely to find a path that matches your interests and career goals.
Not sure where to start? Try the school’s career quiz to help identify fields that might suit you best. Programs span a wide range of industries, including:
- Agriculture
- Business, Management, and Administration
- Education and Training
- Information Technology
- Law, Public Safety and Security
- And Many More!
Class Schedules
The Wisconsin Technical College System offers flexible class schedules to fit various lifestyles. Students can take fully online or hybrid courses, with options for evening and weekend classes. The system provides accelerated learning programs and staggered start dates, allowing students to begin and finish their education at their own pace.
Some programs include hands-on learning through externships or clinical experiences, where students gain practical skills at local hospitals or other facilities.
Is It Legit?
Yes. The Wisconsin Technical College is a legitimate instituition. The school is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate for most of the colleges in the WTCS is 100%. However, this may vary depending on the college. Make sure to confirm before enrolling.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
According to the school’s 2023-24 guidebook, Wisconsin residents pay $146.20 per credit for degree and diploma programs, while out-of-state students pay $219.30 per credit. For the Associate of Arts & Science Degree, in-state students pay $188.90 per credit, and out-of-state students pay $283.35 per credit.
Since there isn’t a universal net price calculator for all colleges in the system, we recommend contacting the specific school you’re interested in for a more accurate cost estimate.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting
- Administrative Assistant
- Business Administration
- Business Analyst
- Business Management
- Digital Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Resources
- Office Manager
- Project Management
- Supply Chain
Design
- Graphic Design
- Interior Design
Healthcare
- CNA
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygienist
- EKG
- EMT
- Healthcare Assistant
- Lab Tech
- LPN
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Billing & Coding
- Occupational Therapy
- Paramedic
- Pharmacy Tech
- Phlebotomy
- Radiography
- Sonography
- Sterile Processing
- Surgical Tech
Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Programming
- Cybersecurity
- Networking
- Software Development
- Web Design
- Web Development
Legal
- Corrections
- Criminal Justice
- Digital Court Reporter
- Law Enforcement
- Paralegal
- Private Investigator
Professional Services
- Barber
- Cosmetologist
- Mortuary Services
- Nail Tech
- Sign Language Interpreter
Real Estate
- Broker
- Property Appraisal
- Property Management
- Sales Associate
Skilled Trades
- Auto Mechanic
- Aviation
- Carpentry
- CNC Machining
- Construction
- Electrical
- Facilities Maintenance
- HVAC
- Home Remodeling
- Manufacturing
- Plumbing
- Solar
- Truck Driving
- Welding
- Woodworking
Campus Locations
Madison 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower, 5th Floor, Madison, WI 53707
Reviews
Based on google reviews, the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS)—which consists of 16 individual colleges—is highly regarded for providing an affordable, career-focused education with excellent job placement, but some colleges within the system face challenges regarding credit transfer and academic consistency.
Overall Score: 4.0/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Career Focus and Job Placement: The system is built for the workforce, with high employment rates. For example, graduates in Architecture and Construction have a 93% employment rate, and those in Health Science have a 94% rate, typically within six months of graduation.
Affordability and Value: Technical colleges are consistently seen as an affordable alternative to four-year universities, offering shorter programs and degrees for less money.
Transfer Opportunities to Universities: WTCS has a Universal Credit Transfer Agreement with the University of Wisconsin (UW) System. This allows students to seamlessly transfer credits from a core set of 11 courses (like Psychology and Algebra/Trigonometry) directly into UW institutions, potentially covering roughly a year’s worth of credits toward a bachelor’s degree.
Supportive and Hands-On Learning: Many reviews for individual colleges mention dedicated instructors who prioritize student success, smaller class sizes, and hands-on, practical training that prepares them for the real world.
Common Criticisms
Inconsistent Academic Quality: While many instructors are praised, some reviews mention a lack of consistency. For instance, some students at Western Technical College reported instructors refusing to answer questions, or information in class differing from the tests.
Credit Transfer Issues (Despite Agreements): While the universal agreement exists for core courses, some students at colleges like Southwest Wisconsin Technical College have reported difficulty transferring credits for technical programs to other colleges, highlighting the need for students to proactively use tools like Transferology to verify course acceptance.
Limited Campus Life: Some reviewers at various colleges noted a lack of social life, describing the experience as simply going to class and going home, especially for students taking online courses.
Diversity and Inclusion Issues: One review for Southwest Wisconsin Technical College mentioned a perceived “diversity and inclusion issue” among students and staff that was felt even in the curriculum and distance learning.
Momentum
The momentum for the Wisconsin Technical College System is very strong as it continues to be the state’s largest provider of education and a key driver of the workforce. Its affordability and robust transfer agreements with the UW System make it an appealing and low-risk starting point for many Wisconsin residents seeking either immediate career entry or a foundation for a four-year degree. The biggest opportunity for improvement lies in ensuring seamless communication and consistent academic quality across all 16 districts.