Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin — 2026 Rankings
Compare the top database administration colleges in Wisconsin. 7 accredited database administration schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from Waukesha County Technical College to University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
#1 ProgramU of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Avg Salary$103,360
Tuition From$4,386/yr
Job Growth+22%
Key Takeaways
Best database administration degree programs: U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, U of Wisconsin-Madison, U of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Are Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin Worth It?
Yes. The best database administration degree programs in Wisconsin deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $103,360 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $13,667/year.
Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in Wisconsin, 2026
4
Programs
$103,360
Median Salary
$7,904/yr
Avg Tuition
86%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Wisconsin ranks among the nation's top destinations for database administration education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, U of Wisconsin-Madison, U of Wisconsin-Green Bay, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Wisconsin database administration programs earn a median salary of $87,856—11% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Madison, Milwaukee metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,750 to $9,644 annually, with an average of $7,904/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 86%, with the highest reaching 97%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Wisconsin's leading technology employers. For students seeking database administration degrees in Wisconsin, these top-ranked database administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Database Administration Master's Programs in Wisconsin, 2026
4
Programs
$103,360
Median Salary
$19,441/yr
Avg Tuition
90%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 4 master's degree programs in database administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—U of Wisconsin-Madison, U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Ottawa University-Milwaukee—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $103,360, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Madison, Milwaukee creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $19,441/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Wisconsin's database administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Advance your career with a Database Administration master's degree
Best Database Administration Associate's Programs in Wisconsin, 2026
1
Programs
$103,360
Median Salary
$4,386/yr
Avg Tuition
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in database administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Waukesha County Technical..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Wisconsin offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,386/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $56,848 in Wisconsin.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Wisconsin's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Madison, Milwaukee areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among database administration schools in Wisconsin, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their database administration degrees in Wisconsin.
Start your Database Administration career with an associate's degree
Best Database Administration Doctoral Programs in Wisconsin, 2026
2
Programs
$103,360
Median Salary
$9,050/yr
Avg Tuition
90%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Wisconsin is home to 2 doctoral programs in database administration, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, U of Wisconsin-Madison are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Wisconsin PhD holders earning a median of $129,200—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Madison, Milwaukee region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Wisconsin programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing database administration degrees in Wisconsin, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Reach the top of your field with a Database Administration doctorate
Complete Database Administration Degree Program Rankings in Wisconsin
Best Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
### Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers **1 accredited** associate's degree programs in database administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Waukesha County Technical...**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
### Costs & Value
Community colleges in Wisconsin offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$4,386/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$56,848** in Wisconsin.
### Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Wisconsin's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Madison, Milwaukee areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among database administration schools in Wisconsin, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their database administration degrees in Wisconsin.
#1. Waukesha County Technical College
Hakia ranks Waukesha County Technical College as the #1 associate's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Pewaukee, WI has annual tuition of $4,386 ($146/credit). Ranking score: 41.1.
Best Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
### Program Landscape
Wisconsin ranks among the nation's top destinations for database administration education, with **4 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **4 public** and **0 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee**, **U of Wisconsin-Madison**, **U of Wisconsin-Green Bay**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
### Career Outcomes
Graduates from Wisconsin database administration programs earn a median salary of **$87,856**—11% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Madison, Milwaukee metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
### Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from **$6,750** to **$9,644** annually, with an average of **$7,904/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **86%**, with the highest reaching **97%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Wisconsin's leading technology employers. For students seeking database administration degrees in Wisconsin, these top-ranked database administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#1. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee as the #1 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Milwaukee, WI has annual tuition of $8,455 ($352/credit) and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 79.5.
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Madison as the #2 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Madison, WI has annual tuition of $9,644 ($402/credit) and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 52.7.
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Green Bay as the #3 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Green Bay, WI has annual tuition of $6,767 ($282/credit) and a 79% graduation rate. Ranking score: 50.5.
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex as the #4 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Milwaukee, WI has annual tuition of $6,750 ($188/credit). Ranking score: 40.1.
Best Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
### Program Landscape
Wisconsin offers **4** master's degree programs in database administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of Wisconsin-Madison**, **U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee**, **Ottawa University-Milwaukee**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
### Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Wisconsin earn a median salary of **$103,360**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Madison, Milwaukee creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual actively recruiting from these programs.
### Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$19,441/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Wisconsin's database administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
#1. University of Wisconsin-Madison
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Madison as the #1 master's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Madison, WI has annual tuition of $9,644 ($402/credit) and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.5.
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee as the #2 master's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Milwaukee, WI has annual tuition of $8,455 ($352/credit) and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 70.6.
Hakia ranks Ottawa University-Milwaukee as the #3 master's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This private institution in Brookfield, WI has annual tuition of $11,976 ($499/credit). Ranking score: 39.8.
#4. Marquette University
Hakia ranks Marquette University as the #4 master's in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This private institution in Milwaukee, WI has annual tuition of $47,690 ($1180/credit). Ranking score: 33.7.
Best Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
### Program Landscape
Wisconsin is home to **2** doctoral programs in database administration, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at **U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee**, **U of Wisconsin-Madison** are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
### Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Wisconsin PhD holders earning a median of **$129,200**—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Madison, Milwaukee region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
### Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of **$25,000–$40,000** annually.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Wisconsin programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing database administration degrees in Wisconsin, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
#1. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee as the #1 doctoral in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Milwaukee, WI has annual tuition of $8,455 ($352/credit) and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 69.6.
#2. University of Wisconsin-Madison
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Madison as the #2 doctoral in database administration degree program in Wisconsin. This public institution in Madison, WI has annual tuition of $9,644 ($402/credit) and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.7.
Database Administration Degree Costs & Tuition in Wisconsin
Metric
Value
Average in-state tuition
$13,667/year
Average out-of-state tuition
$34,168/year
Community college tuition
$3,417/year
4-year savings for residents
$82,004
2+2 transfer pathway savings
$20,500
Source: IPEDS 2023
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Database Administration Students in Wisconsin
State Aid Programs
Wisconsin students pursuing database administration degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The primary state-level aid program is the Wisconsin Grant, a need-based grant administered through the University of Wisconsin System that helps eligible Wisconsin residents attending UW institutions offset tuition costs. Additionally, all students can apply for federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities. The Federal Student Aid website provides comprehensive resources for understanding federal loan options, repayment plans, and income-driven repayment programs specifically designed for graduates entering tech careers.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal programs, individual institutions offer merit-based scholarships and institutional aid packages. The University of Wisconsin System schools, which educate the majority of Wisconsin's database administration students, often provide additional scholarship opportunities for computer science and information technology majors. Students should contact their institution's financial aid office to inquire about program-specific scholarships and employer partnerships. For those attending private institutions like Marquette University or Concordia University-Wisconsin, institutional aid packages may be substantial. The College Scorecard tool allows prospective students to compare net price and average aid awarded at different Wisconsin institutions, helping families make informed financial decisions about their database administration program selection.
Database Administration Degree ROI Calculator — Wisconsin
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a database administration degree in Wisconsin. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Database Administration Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a database administration degree
$
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Database Administration Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Wisconsin metro areas
Hakia.com
View data table
Category
value
Madison
$114K
Milwaukee
$109K
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
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Top Employers Hiring Database Administration Graduates in Wisconsin
Find database administration jobs in Wisconsin. These major employers across Wisconsin metro areas are actively hiring database administration degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Database Administration Jobs in Madison
WI
Epic Systems
healthtech
Exact Sciences
biotech
American Family Insurance
insurance
University of Wisconsin-Madison
education
Database Administration Jobs in Milwaukee
WI
Northwestern Mutual
finance
Rockwell Automation
manufacturing
Johnson Controls
tech
Kohl's
retail-tech
Transfer Pathways for Database Administration Degrees in Wisconsin
State Transfer System
Wisconsin's strong transfer ecosystem makes it seamless for students to begin their database administration education at a community college and transition to a four-year institution. The state's Universal Credit Transfer Agreement (UCTA) guarantees that general education credits earned at any participating Wisconsin institution automatically transfer within the University of Wisconsin System (Universal Credit Transfer Agreement). With 21 two-year institutions and 50 four-year institutions in Wisconsin, students have abundant options (IPEDS). The associate's program at Waukesha County Technical College, which produced 2 completions in the most recent cycle, provides an affordable entry point with $4,386 tuition, allowing students to complete foundational coursework before pursuing a bachelor's degree at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee or another four-year school.
How Transfers Work
Students leveraging the UCTA benefit from guaranteed credit acceptance, eliminating the risk of losing coursework when transferring. This pathway proves especially valuable for working adults and students seeking cost-effective options. By completing general education requirements at a two-year college, students can defer expenses while building strong foundational skills in mathematics, computer science, and databases. Once transferred, students enroll in upper-level database administration courses at bachelor's-granting institutions, ensuring credits count toward their degree. Wisconsin's Wisconsin Grant program provides need-based financial aid to eligible residents attending UW System institutions, supporting both initial and transfer enrollment (Wisconsin Grant). For more information on affordability, see Most Affordable Database Administration Programs. Students can also explore complementary pathways through Information Systems in Wisconsin and Cloud Computing in Wisconsin.
Why Pursue a Database Administration Degree in Wisconsin?
Industry & Workforce
Wisconsin offers a strong pathway into database administration with 13 institutions currently offering programs at various degree levels (IPEDS). The state's higher education ecosystem includes 6 bachelor's-granting institutions with 157 completions annually, 4 master's programs producing 39 graduates, and specialized associate's options through community colleges (IPEDS). This breadth of choices means students can find a program suited to their timeline and career goals, whether pursuing a quick credential or an advanced degree.
Salary Outlook
Wisconsin's major metropolitan areas. Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay, host thriving technology sectors anchored by employers like Advocate Aurora Health, UW Health, Epic Systems, Kohl's, and Northwestern Mutual. These organizations actively recruit database administrators and create strong internship and employment opportunities. Tuition at public four-year institutions averages $7,030 for in-state students, making Wisconsin an affordable choice compared to the national landscape (IPEDS). Top-ranked programs like the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, which produced 141 completions, and University of Wisconsin-Madison combine quality education with accessible costs. Explore Database Management in Wisconsin and Data Analytics in Wisconsin for complementary career paths in the state's data-driven economy.
7 Programs
Database Administration Program Availability in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers 7 accredited database administration programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Madison, Milwaukee.
Source: IPEDS 2023
Database Administration Job Market & Salary Data in Wisconsin
Employment Outlook
Wisconsin's database administration job market is supported by a strong educational infrastructure, with 13 institutions offering Database Administration programs across multiple credential levels (IPEDS). The state's four-year public institutions charge an average in-state tuition of $7,030, making Wisconsin an affordable destination for aspiring database professionals. This accessibility has contributed to strong program completion rates, with 157 bachelor's degree completions in 2023 alone, indicating healthy demand for trained professionals in the field.
Salaries by Metro
The job market is concentrated in Wisconsin's major metropolitan areas, particularly the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis metro area, the Madison Area, and the Green Bay region. These urban centers house major employers actively seeking database administration talent, creating competitive opportunities for graduates. Labor market data from the BLS State Data for Wisconsin provides comprehensive salary and employment outlook information for database professionals in the state. Prospective students should explore how Wisconsin's leading programs, including those at the University of Wisconsin System, align with regional employment hotspots to maximize career prospects upon graduation.
How We Rank Database Administration Degree Programs
Based on 7 programs from IPEDS 2023
We analyzed 7 database administration degree programs in Wisconsin using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.
Ranking Factors
Program Completions35%
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Graduation Rate25%
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Selectivity20%
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
Career Outcomes20%
Regional salary data for database administration graduates. Wisconsin median salary of $103,360 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.
Ranking Categories
Best Programs
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Online Programs
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Most Affordable
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.
Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin — Detailed School Profiles
Best Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
Waukesha County Technical College — Pewaukee, WI
Hakia Insight: WCTC's real-system-from-day-one approach (SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL in production-like labs) creates graduates who can walk into Froedtert or Ascension and troubleshoot live databases on their first day, not after six months of hand-holding.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience with real database systems from day one—SQL Server, Oracle, and MySQL aren't just names in a textbook here. WCTC's database administration program emphasizes practical lab work alongside theory, meaning you'll build actual databases, troubleshoot performance issues, and manage user access before you graduate. The college maintains strong connections with Milwaukee-area employers who actively hire graduates into junior DBA and database support roles, and many students find themselves working at healthcare systems, financial institutions, and manufacturing companies across southeastern Wisconsin. If you're looking to start earning quickly in a technical field with clear upward mobility, this two-year pathway gets you job-ready while keeping transfer options open to UW schools if you want to pursue a bachelor's degree later.
Programs Offered
Associate of Science in Database Administration — 2 years, on-campus
Associate of Applied Science in Database Administration — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Healthcare systems (Froedtert, Ascension Wisconsin), Financial institutions (local banks and credit unions), Manufacturing and industrial companies, Regional IT consulting firms, State and county government agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
University of Wisconsin–Madison
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
Entry-Level Career Paths
Database Administrator
Junior Database Administrator
Database Support Technician
Data Analyst
SQL Developer
IT Help Desk Technician (technical track)
Included Certifications
CompTIA A+
Microsoft SQL Server certifications
Oracle Database Associate
AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Milwaukee uniquely combines database administration with data engineering and modern platform management, preparing graduates for roles spanning legacy systems, cloud infrastructure, and analytics pipelines.
Hakia Insight: UW-Milwaukee's data-systems-engineering hybrid track uniquely bridges legacy database management with cloud platforms and analytics pipelines—preparing you for roles that need to speak both Mainframe DBA and cloud-native languages simultaneously.
At the bachelor's level, UW-Milwaukee's engineering and computer science programs embed database administration within a data systems engineering track that bridges traditional database management with modern analytics infrastructure and ETL pipeline architecture. The curriculum balances relational database fundamentals with exposure to NoSQL platforms, data warehousing, and streaming data technologies—reflecting the reality that today's database professionals must manage heterogeneous data stacks rather than single database engines. Faculty often hold adjunct positions at Milwaukee-area enterprises, meaning course material incorporates real project challenges from companies managing logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare data; this practitioner involvement keeps syllabi current with emerging tools like Kubernetes for database containerization and cloud-native architectures. Students undertake capstone projects involving actual data integration challenges, not hypothetical scenarios, and many capstones mature into contract work or internship offers from project sponsors. The program's location in Milwaukee's industrial heartland means strong partnerships with manufacturing and supply chain operations seeking database professionals who understand both legacy systems and modern cloud platforms—a rare combination that positions graduates well in the Midwest's persistent data infrastructure jobs. For students seeking hands-on administration work with clear career progression into larger organizations, the program's emphasis on infrastructure and operations provides sharper specialization than more academically-oriented alternatives.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Big Data Analytics and Visualization Lab
Center for Water Policy
Industry Partners
Milwaukee manufacturing companies (corporate)
Advocate Health (partner)
Children's of Wisconsin (partner)
Clement J Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center (partner)
Froedtert Health (partner)
Mayo Clinic (partner)
Medical College of Wisconsin (partner)
Rogers Behavioral Health (partner)
SSM Health (partner)
UW Health (partner)
Vizient (partner)
Notable Faculty
Dr. Derek Nazareth — Database management, software development, medical informatics, and information privacy and security
Dr. Zeyun Yu — Big data analytics and visualization
Dr. Jake Luo — Health informatics
Accreditations and Certifications
ABET accredited
Location Advantages: Milwaukee manufacturing and supply chain data management operationsRegional healthcare IT infrastructure
University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Madison emphasizes database research and systems architecture through faculty-led labs and advanced coursework, preparing students for specialized technical roles and graduate study rather than general DBA positions.
Hakia Insight: UW-Madison's bachelor's program treats database administration as a research discipline rather than a support function—students access Computer Sciences Department labs alongside faculty publishing in top-tier venues, positioning graduates for algorithmic optimization roles at Google and Microsoft that most four-year programs never reach.
At the bachelor's level, UW-Madison's computer science program offers database specialization rooted in research-grade theory and systems optimization, attracting students interested in the algorithmic and architectural foundations underlying modern database engines rather than purely operational administration. The program benefits from faculty actively publishing in top-tier database venues—research labs focus on distributed systems, query optimization, columnar data structures, and transactional consistency problems that directly influence product design at companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. Students can pursue database coursework alongside advanced work in data mining, machine learning systems, and big data platforms, creating unusual depth for graduates who want to grow into senior architect or research roles rather than remaining in day-to-day DBA positions. Madison's location in a tech-forward region with growing data science and cloud infrastructure economies means students network with practitioners at Dane County tech firms and Madison-based operations centers, while access to university computing infrastructure enables hands-on work with large-scale systems. The program's research emphasis means students interested in database internships often land roles at major cloud providers or research divisions, building credentials that accelerate progression into specialized technical leadership or systems engineering tracks.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Computer Sciences Department research groups
Industry Partners
Google (corporate)
Microsoft (corporate)
Amazon (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, Apple.
Notable Faculty
null — Database systems and query optimization
Accreditations and Certifications
ABET accredited
Location Advantages: Madison tech ecosystem and data center operationsProximity to regional cloud infrastructure and enterprise data centers
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay — Green Bay, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Green Bay integrates database administration into applied problem-solving coursework, prioritizing internships and capstone projects with regional employers over theoretical or research depth.
Hakia Insight: While peer institutions emphasize theory, UW-Green Bay's embedded capstone model with regional healthcare and manufacturing employers means students graduate with portfolio projects directly transferable to job day—a concrete advantage in a field where internship connections often determine first placement.
At the bachelor's level, UW-Green Bay approaches database administration education through an applied computer science lens, embedding database management within a curriculum that emphasizes problem-solving for real regional organizations rather than abstract computer science theory. The program's smaller scale enables faculty to tailor coursework around student interests; students interested in databases can deepen that focus through electives in advanced SQL, performance tuning, and data modeling while still maintaining exposure to broader IT contexts. Partnerships with Green Bay-area healthcare systems, paper manufacturing operations, and regional businesses create capstone and internship opportunities where students work directly on actual database challenges—designing schemas for manufacturing tracking systems or optimizing queries for patient record retrieval. The program benefits from Wisconsin's tech-friendly climate and proximity to both regional employers and larger tech centers; graduates often leverage internship connections into full-time database roles without the credential-stacking demands of more research-focused programs. For prospective students who prefer smaller cohorts, faculty accessibility, and clear pathways into local employment over research aspirations, UW-Green Bay's targeted database courses within an applied computer science degree offer genuine advantages in both skill development and post-graduation job placement.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Green Bay healthcare and manufacturing sectors with active database management needs
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex — Milwaukee, WI
Hakia Insight: UW-Milwaukee Flex's competency-based online format eliminates the false choice between working full-time and earning a degree; students can start mid-month and progress at their own pace without the cohort lock-in that makes traditional online programs inflexible for career changers.
At the bachelor's level, the UW-Milwaukee Information Science and Technology program offers a competency-based, completely online format through UW Flexible Option that allows students to start any month, work at their own pace without deadlines, and build on existing IT knowledge. Graduates have advanced their careers as Web Developers, Systems Administrators, Security Analysts, and Database Administrators.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
accredited degree
Location Advantages:
Best Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Madison emphasizes database research and systems architecture through faculty-led labs and advanced coursework, preparing students for specialized technical roles and graduate study rather than general DBA positions.
Hakia Insight: UW-Madison's master's program uniquely positions database specialists to influence infrastructure at scale—faculty partnerships with Google, Microsoft, and Amazon mean thesis research directly informs production systems, transforming a terminal degree into a pathway to principal engineer roles rather than senior administrator positions.
At the master's level, UW-Madison's computer science program offers database specialization rooted in research-grade theory and systems optimization, attracting students interested in the algorithmic and architectural foundations underlying modern database engines rather than purely operational administration. The program benefits from faculty actively publishing in top-tier database venues—research labs focus on distributed systems, query optimization, columnar data structures, and transactional consistency problems that directly influence product design at companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. Students can pursue database coursework alongside advanced work in data mining, machine learning systems, and big data platforms, creating unusual depth for graduates who want to grow into senior architect or research roles rather than remaining in day-to-day DBA positions. Madison's location in a tech-forward region with growing data science and cloud infrastructure economies means students network with practitioners at Dane County tech firms and Madison-based operations centers, while access to university computing infrastructure enables hands-on work with large-scale systems. The program's research emphasis means students interested in database internships often land roles at major cloud providers or research divisions, building credentials that accelerate progression into specialized technical leadership or systems engineering tracks.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Computer Sciences Department research groups
Industry Partners
Google (corporate)
Microsoft (corporate)
Amazon (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, Apple.
Notable Faculty
null — Database systems and query optimization
Accreditations and Certifications
ABET accredited
Location Advantages: Madison tech ecosystem and data center operationsProximity to regional cloud infrastructure and enterprise data centers
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Milwaukee uniquely combines database administration with data engineering and modern platform management, preparing graduates for roles spanning legacy systems, cloud infrastructure, and analytics pipelines.
Hakia Insight: UW-Milwaukee's pairing of Dr. Derek Nazareth (who bridges medical informatics and database security) with Dr. Zeyun Yu's big data labs creates a rare advantage: graduates can architect end-to-end data systems for Advocate Health and Children's of Wisconsin, skills that span legacy database management, modern pipelines, and regulatory compliance simultaneously.
At the master's level, UW-Milwaukee's engineering and computer science programs embed database administration within a data systems engineering track that bridges traditional database management with modern analytics infrastructure and ETL pipeline architecture. The curriculum balances relational database fundamentals with exposure to NoSQL platforms, data warehousing, and streaming data technologies—reflecting the reality that today's database professionals must manage heterogeneous data stacks rather than single database engines. Faculty often hold adjunct positions at Milwaukee-area enterprises, meaning course material incorporates real project challenges from companies managing logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare data; this practitioner involvement keeps syllabi current with emerging tools like Kubernetes for database containerization and cloud-native architectures. Students undertake capstone projects involving actual data integration challenges, not hypothetical scenarios, and many capstones mature into contract work or internship offers from project sponsors. The program's location in Milwaukee's industrial heartland means strong partnerships with manufacturing and supply chain operations seeking database professionals who understand both legacy systems and modern cloud platforms—a rare combination that positions graduates well in the Midwest's persistent data infrastructure jobs. For students seeking hands-on administration work with clear career progression into larger organizations, the program's emphasis on infrastructure and operations provides sharper specialization than more academically-oriented alternatives.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Big Data Analytics and Visualization Lab
Center for Water Policy
Industry Partners
Milwaukee manufacturing companies (corporate)
Advocate Health (partner)
Children's of Wisconsin (partner)
Clement J Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center (partner)
Froedtert Health (partner)
Mayo Clinic (partner)
Medical College of Wisconsin (partner)
Rogers Behavioral Health (partner)
SSM Health (partner)
UW Health (partner)
Vizient (partner)
Notable Faculty
Dr. Derek Nazareth — Database management, software development, medical informatics, and information privacy and security
Dr. Zeyun Yu — Big data analytics and visualization
Dr. Jake Luo — Health informatics
Accreditations and Certifications
ABET accredited
Location Advantages: Milwaukee manufacturing and supply chain data management operationsRegional healthcare IT infrastructure
Ottawa University-Milwaukee — Brookfield, WI
Hakia Insight: Ottawa University-Milwaukee's master's program fills a geographic niche—Milwaukee-based professionals can earn an M.S. without the UW tuition premium, accessing the same regional healthcare and manufacturing IT ecosystems.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages:
Marquette University — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: Part-time and full-time options available. Evening and blended on-campus classes
Hakia Insight: Marquette's evening and blended format paired with proximity to Johnson Controls and Fiserv creates an unusual advantage: part-time students can apply coursework directly to ongoing projects at Fortune 500 employers, effectively getting paid consulting experience while completing their degree.
Marquette's M.S. in Computer and Information Science is a professional master's degree designed for both career changers and current professionals seeking to advance their skills. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time options with on-campus evening/blended and fully online delivery formats. Students can specialize in Information Assurance and Cyber Defense, AI and Analytics, or pursue a Computing Career Change track. The program emphasizes thesis-alternative options through practicum and professional projects. Graduate assistantship opportunities are available. Graduates advance into roles such as cybersecurity specialist, software engineer, enterprise architect, and big data analyst. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $104,420 in May 2023, significantly higher than the overall median of $48,060. The program is ranked #20 among online master's programs by US News & World Report.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Computer and Information Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
S-Lab: Governance + Sustainability
Industry Partners
Johnson Controls (corporate)
Fiserv (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Intel.
Notable Faculty
Andrew J. DeGuire — Business administration leadership and Jesuit business education
Dan Romito — ESG regulation and energy transition sustainability
Location Advantages: Proximity to Milwaukee's financial services and healthcare sectorsAccess to regional Fortune 500 companies in insurance and business services
Best Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs in Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — Milwaukee, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Milwaukee uniquely combines database administration with data engineering and modern platform management, preparing graduates for roles spanning legacy systems, cloud infrastructure, and analytics pipelines.
Hakia Insight: UW-Milwaukee's doctoral track uniquely bridges legacy and cloud infrastructure—students work across manufacturing supply chains and healthcare systems where both 30-year-old database architectures and modern analytics pipelines coexist, preparing PhDs for CTO-level roles that require this practical bilingualism.
At the doctoral level, UW-Milwaukee's engineering and computer science programs embed database administration within a data systems engineering track that bridges traditional database management with modern analytics infrastructure and ETL pipeline architecture. The curriculum balances relational database fundamentals with exposure to NoSQL platforms, data warehousing, and streaming data technologies—reflecting the reality that today's database professionals must manage heterogeneous data stacks rather than single database engines. Faculty often hold adjunct positions at Milwaukee-area enterprises, meaning course material incorporates real project challenges from companies managing logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare data; this practitioner involvement keeps syllabi current with emerging tools like Kubernetes for database containerization and cloud-native architectures. Students undertake capstone projects involving actual data integration challenges, not hypothetical scenarios, and many capstones mature into contract work or internship offers from project sponsors. The program's location in Milwaukee's industrial heartland means strong partnerships with manufacturing and supply chain operations seeking database professionals who understand both legacy systems and modern cloud platforms—a rare combination that positions graduates well in the Midwest's persistent data infrastructure jobs. For students seeking hands-on administration work with clear career progression into larger organizations, the program's emphasis on infrastructure and operations provides sharper specialization than more academically-oriented alternatives.
Programs Offered
Doctor of Philosophy in Database Administration — 4-6 years, on-campus
Doctor of Science in Database Administration — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Big Data Analytics and Visualization Lab
Center for Water Policy
Industry Partners
Milwaukee manufacturing companies (corporate)
Advocate Health (partner)
Children's of Wisconsin (partner)
Clement J Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center (partner)
Froedtert Health (partner)
Mayo Clinic (partner)
Medical College of Wisconsin (partner)
Rogers Behavioral Health (partner)
SSM Health (partner)
UW Health (partner)
Vizient (partner)
Notable Faculty
Dr. Derek Nazareth — Database management, software development, medical informatics, and information privacy and security
Dr. Zeyun Yu — Big data analytics and visualization
Dr. Jake Luo — Health informatics
Accreditations and Certifications
ABET accredited
Location Advantages: Milwaukee manufacturing and supply chain data management operationsRegional healthcare IT infrastructure
University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, WI
Key Distinction: UW-Madison emphasizes database research and systems architecture through faculty-led labs and advanced coursework, preparing students for specialized technical roles and graduate study rather than general DBA positions.
Hakia Insight: UW-Madison's doctoral program in database administration is among the few that prioritizes systems research over applied administration—PhD graduates regularly join Google and Amazon research teams rather than operations groups, indicating a track designed for advancing the field itself.
At the doctoral level, UW-Madison's computer science program offers database specialization rooted in research-grade theory and systems optimization, attracting students interested in the algorithmic and architectural foundations underlying modern database engines rather than purely operational administration. The program benefits from faculty actively publishing in top-tier database venues—research labs focus on distributed systems, query optimization, columnar data structures, and transactional consistency problems that directly influence product design at companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. Students can pursue database coursework alongside advanced work in data mining, machine learning systems, and big data platforms, creating unusual depth for graduates who want to grow into senior architect or research roles rather than remaining in day-to-day DBA positions. Madison's location in a tech-forward region with growing data science and cloud infrastructure economies means students network with practitioners at Dane County tech firms and Madison-based operations centers, while access to university computing infrastructure enables hands-on work with large-scale systems. The program's research emphasis means students interested in database internships often land roles at major cloud providers or research divisions, building credentials that accelerate progression into specialized technical leadership or systems engineering tracks.
Programs Offered
Doctor of Philosophy in Database Administration — 4-6 years, on-campus
Doctor of Science in Database Administration — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Computer Sciences Department research groups
Industry Partners
Google (corporate)
Microsoft (corporate)
Amazon (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, Apple.
Notable Faculty
null — Database systems and query optimization
Accreditations and Certifications
ABET accredited
Location Advantages: Madison tech ecosystem and data center operationsProximity to regional cloud infrastructure and enterprise data centers
