Best Christian Colleges in Wisconsin 2024

Badge for BEST IN WISCONSIN CHRISTIAN COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:
Updated:

For prospective college students looking for schools that align with their Christian faith and demonstrate academic excellence, here are the best Christian colleges and universities in Wisconsin.

Best Christian Colleges in Wisconsin 2024

  1. Marquette University
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Religious Studies, Nursing, Communications
  2. Carthage College
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Physics, Criminal Justice, Biology
  3. Carroll University
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Chemistry, Nursing, Medical
  4. Concordia University Wisconsin
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Religious Studies, History, Nursing
  5. Edgewood College
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Nursing, Sociology, Religious Studies
  6. St. Norbert College
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Sociology, Philosophy, Economics
  7. Alverno College
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Nursing, Social Work, Mathematics
  8. Cardinal Stritch University
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Nursing, Communications, Education
  9. Viterbo University
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Nursing, Medical, Literature
  10. Mount Mary University
    • Most Popular Degree Programs: Social Work, Medical, Sociology

Best Christian Colleges in Wisconsin 2023

  1. #1

    Marquette University

    Milwaukee , WI
    #14 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $47K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1265/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Marquette University

    Cost of Degree: $46,670
    Expenses: $17,892
    Starting Salary: $70,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Expect to acquire a transformative education grounded in Catholic teachings when you study at Marquette University. Students can develop their skills and a sense of community at this institution.

    What we love about Marquette University:

    Marquette University trains students to lead purposeful lives. The school’s teachings are grounded in deep morals and values and are open to applying different approaches in education.

    Marquette University is ideal for students who:

    Want to study at a school that pursues academic excellence and spirituality.

    Marquette University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to keep their cost of tuition low.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Carthage College

    Kenosha , WI
    #8 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1090/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Carthage College

    Cost of Degree: $34,500
    Expenses: $16,248
    Starting Salary: $50,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    A private liberal arts college, Carthage College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Students are motivated to pursue knowledge in all forms.

    What we love about Carthage College:

    Creativity is encouraged at Carthage College so students can contribute positively to the world. There will be personalized attention coming from experienced staff and instructors.

    Carthage College is ideal for students who:

    Want to be a part of a close-knit and small community.

    Carthage College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want a college geared towards the STEM fields.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Carroll University

    Waukesha , WI
    #4 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Wisconsin 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Carroll University

    Cost of Degree: $36,190
    Expenses: $15,394
    Starting Salary: $47,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, Carroll University has been a leading liberal arts university in Wisconsin. Students will be given the opportunity to learn in a diverse community.

    What we love about Carroll University:

    Offering numerous undergraduate and graduate programs, students at Carroll University can take advantage of different learning outcomes and opportunities.

    Carroll University is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend a Pioneer Driven university.

    Carroll University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to attend a larger school.

    Carroll University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Physics and Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Concordia University Wisconsin

    Mequon , WI
    #4 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at Concordia University Wisconsin

    Cost of Degree: $33,062
    Expenses: $19,260
    Starting Salary: $47,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    A private Lutheran university, Concordia University Wisconsin helps prepare students to live with a heart of service towards God and people. They have a long history of applying a Christ-centered approach in education.

    What we love about Concordia University Wisconsin:

    Concordia University Wisconsin is part of the Concordia Wisconsin System. They offer a wide variety of professional career education.

    Concordia University Wisconsin is ideal for students who:

    Want to enroll in a college program aimed at preparing students for careers in the church.

    Concordia University Wisconsin might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer to attend a school with more dining options.

    Concordia University Wisconsin’s Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
    • Nurse Educator
    • Healthcare Informatics
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Analytics and Change Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management of Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Radiologic Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    Edgewood College

    Madison , WI
    #5 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Edgewood College

    Cost of Degree: $33,550
    Expenses: $15,832
    Starting Salary: $47,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    A Dominican college, Edgewood College offers a friendly and welcoming campus to all kinds of students. Although they apply Catholic practices and teachings, they welcome learners from all faiths and backgrounds.

    What we love about Edgewood College:

    Edgewood College features academic programs that will prepare students for a dynamic and changing world.

    Edgewood College is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend a school with engaging educational experiences.

    Edgewood College might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to attend a school that has more social activities.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    St. Norbert College

    De Pere , WI
    #6 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/24

    Career Outlook for degree at St. Norbert College

    Cost of Degree: $43,204
    Expenses: $14,380
    Starting Salary: $51,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    St. Norbert College is a top-ranked Catholic university situated in De Pere, Wisconsin. This school does a great job of developing your character and skills.

    What we love about St. Norbert College:

    St. Norbert College tries to ensure every learner is able to achieve a lifetime of success. There are ways for students to save on education while being given opportunities to develop as a person fully.

    St. Norbert College is ideal for students who:

    Want to skip student loan debt.

    St. Norbert College might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to attend a school that is less rigorous and challenging with their courses.

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Alverno College

    Milwaukee , WI
    #10 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #11 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Alverno College

    Cost of Degree: $31,858
    Expenses: $15,838
    Starting Salary: $40,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Alverno College offers a Franciscan college education to all of its learners. They are an all-inclusive liberal arts college that applies transformative learning and career readiness to all its courses.

    What we love about Alverno College:

    At Alverno College, students will be trailblazers. The school instills an atmosphere where students are helpful and supportive of one another.

    Alverno College is ideal for students who:

    Want to be a part of a vibrant and inclusive community.

    Alverno College might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to attend a school that comes with better administration processes.

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Cardinal Stritch University

    Milwaukee , WI
    #6 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2025 #7 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Cardinal Stritch University

    Cost of Degree: $35,444
    Expenses: $14,792
    Starting Salary: $55,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    At Cardinal Stritch University, the institution equips students with the Cardinal Stritch University legacy, which is to develop graduates who will be responsive to communities’ needs for leaders.

    What we love about Cardinal Stritch University:

    Cardinal Stritch University students will develop their critical thinking and leadership skills to become lifelong learners.

    Cardinal Stritch University is ideal for students who:

    Want to develop their leadership skills.

    Cardinal Stritch University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to attend a school with more convenient admission processes.

    Cardinal Stritch University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Introduction to Business
    • Advanced Business Principles
    • Human Resources and Marketing
    • Economics and Accounting
    • International Business
    • Introduction Sport and Recreation Business
    • Advanced Sport and Recreation Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Education Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Introduction to Education
    • Classroom Management and Culture
    • Reading and Language Arts Integration
    • Secondary Curriculum and Methods
    • and Secondary Education Application
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Health
    Degree Concentrations
    • Human Biology
    • Social Inequality
    • Social Change and Social Institutions
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    Degree Concentrations
    • Quantitative Chemistry
    • Human Biology
    • Social Change and Social Institutions
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    Viterbo University

    La Crosse , WI
    #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Wisconsin

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Viterbo University

    Cost of Degree: $31,150
    Expenses: $13,760
    Starting Salary: $47,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Viterbo University is a private Catholic university based in Wisconsin. They offer a great liberal arts education. Students will also be trained to serve the common good and active members of society.

    What we love about Viterbo University:

    Viterbo University seeks to influence all kinds of students to transform communities. They have diverse partnerships to make this mission happen.

    Viterbo University is ideal for students who:

    Want to grow in leadership and meet people from all walks of life.

    Viterbo University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer to attend a school that comes with more amenities.

    Compare school
  11. #10

    Mount Mary University

    Milwaukee , WI
    #5 Most Affordable Online Occupational Therapy Masters Programs 2025 #14 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Mount Mary University

    Cost of Degree: $33,450
    Expenses: $17,486
    Starting Salary: $43,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Mount Mary University is a Roman Catholic university. This private school embraces a unique culture that supports students’ dreams.

    What we love about Mount Mary University:

    All of the academic programs being offered at Mount Mary University will result in students developing leadership skills and creativity.

    Mount Mary University is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend an all-women university.

    Mount Mary University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to attend a co-educational school.

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Lakeland University

    Plymouth , WI

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    100%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lakeland University

    Cost of Degree: $31,786
    Expenses: $15,836
    Starting Salary: $45,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Affiliated with the United Church of Christ, Lakeland University works on producing future leaders and thinkers. They accept transfer credits and make use of blended learning platforms.

    What we love about Lakeland University:

    At Lakeland University, you can choose to study at any one of its six locations around Wisconsin. Students can gain academic credits from their actual work experiences.

    Lakeland University is ideal for students who:

    Don’t want to accumulate unnecessary student debt.

    Lakeland University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May want to attend a school that comes with more diverse dining options.

    Compare school
  14. #12

    Marian University

    Fond Du Lac , WI
    #6 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Marian University

    Cost of Degree: $30,000
    Expenses: $12,190
    Starting Salary: $46,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Marian University is a private university that offers traditional and online programs. It’s a co-educational school where all their staff and instructors are supportive of your dreams, no matter what they are.

    What we love about Marian University:

    At Marian University, students can make high-quality connections and relationships.

    Marian University is ideal for students who:

    Want to be surrounded by people who genuinely care.

    Marian University might not be the best fit for students who:

    May prefer to attend a bigger class size.

    Compare school
  15. #13

    Northland College

    Ashland , WI

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Northland College

    Cost of Degree: $41,237
    Expenses: $13,138
    Starting Salary: $35,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    An environmental liberal arts college, Northland College is based in Ashland, Wisconsin. All of their teachings are combined with sustainability and environmental aspects.

    What we love about Northland College:

    Students at Northland College will have access to numerous internships and unique courses.

    Northland College is ideal for students who:

    Want to attend a school that focuses on the environment and sustainability practices.

    Northland College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Can’t enroll in courses that are not being offered every semester.

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Wisconsin Lutheran College

    Milwaukee , WI

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Wisconsin Lutheran College

    Cost of Degree: $33,762
    Expenses: $14,752
    Starting Salary: $45,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Wisconsin Lutheran College is a nationally ranked Christian university based in Wisconsin. There are many research opportunities and extracurricular activities available for students to enjoy.

    What we love about Wisconsin Lutheran College:

    Academic and spiritual growth are high priorities for all faculty and staff.

    Wisconsin Lutheran College is ideal for students who:

    Want to develop their Christian faith.

    Wisconsin Lutheran College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer to attend a more diverse school.

    Compare school
  17. #15

    Maranatha Baptist University

    Watertown , WI

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1115/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Maranatha Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $18,810
    Expenses: $15,352
    Starting Salary: $38,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Offering undergraduate and graduate programs, Maranatha Baptist University offers biblical and engaging education to all students. Most graduates are active in a Christian church.

    What we love about Maranatha Baptist University:

    Passionate Christian instructors incorporate academic courses with biblical worldviews and influences.

    Maranatha Baptist University is ideal for students who:

    Want to study in a flexible learning environment.

    Maranatha Baptist University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to attend a larger school.

    Compare school

In order to be included in this ranking of best Christian colleges and universities, a school must self-identify as Christian, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor degree programs.

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Student Submitted Questions on the Best Christian Colleges in Wisconsin

Timothy asks, “What support systems are available for students struggling to balance their spiritual growth with academic pressures at Christian colleges in Wisconsin?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Many colleges will provide a variety of support options for students trying to maintain a strong faith while in school. In regards to academics, most colleges will provide tutoring services, academic success centers, and faculty advising. In terms of spiritual growth, many Christian colleges will have campus ministry teams, chapel services, mentorship programs, and Bible study groups.

Patience asks, “How do campus ministries at Wisconsin Christian colleges engage students in spiritual growth and community service activities?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: The exact type of on-campus ministries offered will vary from school to school but many Christian colleges in Wisconsin have campus ministry programs, discipleship and evangelism programs, spiritual retreats, and community service opportunities. Most colleges try to make these programs fairly easy to participate in and offer various types of opportunities so that the unique student’s interests are met.

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Wisconsin’s Best Christian Colleges in Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology
2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Marquette University
  2. Mount Mary University
  3. St. Norbert College
  4. Edgewood College
  5. Northland College
  6. Cardinal Stritch University
  7. Carroll University
  8. Maranatha Baptist University
  9. Marian University
  10. Alverno College
  11. Carthage College
  12. Concordia University Wisconsin
  13. Lakeland University
  14. Viterbo University
  15. Wisconsin Lutheran College
  16. Holy Family College
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