University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$38,604
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$14,626/yr
vs high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
2.6 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
658%
Return on investment
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$9,651
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,500
Median Earnings (5yr)
$49,626
Graduation Rate
71%
Receive Financial Aid
44%
Avg Aid Amount
$0
Program-Level ROI
| Program | 4yr Cost | Median Earnings (5yr) | Est. 20yr ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology, General. | $38,604 | $57,123 | 1046% |
| Psychology, General. | $38,604 | $47,929 | 570% |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | $38,604 | $43,696 | 351% |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | $38,604 | $65,752 | 1493% |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | $38,604 | $43,241 | 327% |
| Marketing. | $38,604 | $56,901 | 1035% |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | $38,604 | $56,500 | 1014% |
| Communication and Media Studies. | $38,604 | $50,597 | 708% |
| Accounting and Related Services. | $38,604 | $68,207 | 1620% |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | $38,604 | $50,331 | 694% |
| Public Health. | $38,604 | $42,887 | 309% |
| English Language and Literature, General. | $38,604 | $44,660 | 400% |
Peer Comparison
658%
20yr ROI
653%
20yr ROI
683%
20yr ROI
125%
20yr ROI
405%
20yr ROI
Financial Aid Impact
Before Aid
After Aid (Estimated)
Methodology
ROI calculations are based on data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. The earnings premium is calculated as the difference between median graduate earnings and the national average earnings for high school diploma holders ($35,000).
The 20-year ROI formula: ((Earnings Premium x 20) - Total Cost) / Total Cost x 100. Break-even point: Total Cost / Annual Earnings Premium. All figures use in-state tuition and do not account for inflation, opportunity cost, or financial aid variations.