Graduate Programs at University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers 160 master’s and 108 doctoral degrees, including Ph.D., AuD, DNP, OTD, DMA, MA, MS, MBA, MAcc, MFA, and MFS. The university provides opportunities for advanced education and research across various disciplines. However, the most popular graduate programs offered at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are given below; 

• Master of Accountancy (M Acc): Offered by the School of Business, the Master of Accountancy program at UW-Madison equips students with both technical and professional skills vital for a successful career in accounting. The program is designed to be completed in just 1–2 years and offers in-person instruction with high-caliber faculty and industry professionals. Graduates are prepared for dynamic and rewarding careers in assurance, taxation, or advisory roles within public accounting. The program also helps in finding opportunities in industry, government, nonprofits, or entrepreneurial ventures. 
• Master of Social Work (MSW): UW-Madison full-time MSW prioritizes the development of Social Work Practice through a well-structured curriculum that focuses on knowledge, values, and skills with an analytical approach. The program spans two years, starting with the Generalist Practice Year, which gives a solid foundation in social work principles. This prepares students for the subsequent Advanced Practice Specialization Year, where they can choose to focus on Aging, Child, Youth, and Family Welfare, Health, or Mental Health. 
• Master of Public Affairs (MPA):  The Master of Public Affairs offers a transformative educational experience for both professionals and recent college graduates, preparing them for impactful careers in public affairs. La Follette School of Public Affairs MPA graduates undergo interdisciplinary training, positioning them as managers and analysts in governmental agencies at all levels, within the nonprofit sector and private firms throughout the US. Typically completed in two years, this program ensures a complete and dynamic preparation for a successful career in public affairs.      
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.): The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program at UW-Madison is a prestigious and research-intensive doctoral program designed to cultivate scholars for careers in academia, research, or advanced roles across diverse industries. Renowned for its academic excellence, the university has a selection of over 100 doctoral programs, providing students with a wide array of fields to pursue their research interests. Among our popular doctoral programs are History, Pharmaceutical Science, and Mechanical Engineering.             
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): UW-Madison MBA is ranked 18th among the best public full-time MBA programs as per the 2024 edition of US News & World Report. The program offers a unique educational experience, with eight specialized areas of focus. Over two academic years, including a valuable summer internship, MBA graduate students can immerse themselves in practical applications within their chosen field. Among the compelling specializations available are Real Estate (ranked 6 by US News & World Report), and Risk Management and Insurance (ranked 1 by US News & World Report).              
• Mechanical Engineering (MS): The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UW-Madison is ranked 9 by the US News & World Report. The Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering primarily promotes academic and professional growth and emphasizes collaboration in addressing contemporary challenges in the field. Students get the opportunity to specialize in diverse areas such as biomechanics, computational engineering, energy, manufacturing, and mechanics and controls. Additional specialties are available within each specialization.    
• Doctor of Laws/Juris Doctor (JD):  Offered by UW-Madison Law School, the JD program is structured to ensure students acquire a comprehensive legal education. Governed by the 90-credit rule, students are required to complete core courses, including Contracts, Torts, Civil Procedure, and more. The Graduation Requirement courses included in the program ensure foundational legal knowledge. The program’s dynamic curriculum shows commitment to academic excellence and prepares aspiring legal professionals with a solid foundation and essential skills.       
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): UW-Madison School of Nursing offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, providing an enriching education situated at the forefront of healthcare. With access to university resources and strong community and clinical partnerships, the program stands out for its dynamic approach and prepares graduates for advanced nursing practice. Distinguished by a 100% Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) certification pass rate, the program is recognized as the top DNP program in Wisconsin by U.S. News & World Report.

Tuition

For graduate programs at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the tuition varies based on residency. Wisconsin residents pay $12,252, non-residents pay $25,578, and Minnesota residents pay $19,992. 

These numbers only reflect the tuition and do not consider other expenses. The university uses this tuition information to determine financial aid, emphasizing its role in supporting graduate education at UW-Madison. 

What is the acceptance rate for the Master's program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison?

The total number of applications, the number of students admitted, and the number of new enrollments for the University of Wisconsin-Madison master’s programs are given below; 

Total number of applications: 10,967

Total admissions: 4680

Total new enrollments: 2276

Master’s Programs acceptance rate: 42.67%

Does the University of Wisconsin-Madison offer early decision or early action options for their graduate programs?

Yes, the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers an early admission program called Early Action. The application deadline for Early Action is typically in early November, and students will receive an admission decision by the end of January. However, not all graduate programs available at the university participate in this program, so it's important to check with the specific program you're interested in to see if they offer Early Action.

Can the University of Wisconsin-Madison accept transfer credits obtained from other graduate schools?

Yes, the University of Wisconsin-Madison accepts transfer credits from other graduate schools. However, it's important to note that the program's minimum graduate residence credit requirement can only be satisfied with courses taken as a graduate student at UW–Madison.

Career outcomes for University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate students: Where are they employed and what is their earning potential after obtaining a master's degree?

University of Wisconsin–Madison graduate students experience promising career outcomes after obtaining a master's degree, as revealed by data from the UW System’s Office of Policy Analysis and Research:

• Salary Data: Graduates with Bachelor’s and advanced degrees earn initial salaries ranging from $51,843 to $64,481 a year after graduation. Within fifteen years, these salaries more than double.
• Employment Location: Over 82% of Wisconsin resident students and 20% of non-resident students remain in Wisconsin five years after earning their degree.

These figures demonstrate the considerable earning potential and career success enjoyed by University of Wisconsin–Madison graduate students, contributing to workforce development in Wisconsin.