University of Wisconsin-Madison ROI Analysis
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$44,820
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$26,275/yr
above high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
1.7 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
1072%
Return on investment
ROI Analysis
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a strong return on investment. The median debt for graduates is $20,484. One year after graduation, the median earnings are $53,379. Five years after graduation, earnings increase to $61,275, and ten years after graduation, earnings are $73,792.
The debt-to-income ratio is favorable. The median debt of $20,484 is a small fraction of the one-year earnings of $53,379. The debt is paid off quickly.
The break-even timeline is short. With in-state tuition at $11,205, the initial investment is quickly recouped. The high earnings potential, combined with relatively low debt, suggests a positive financial outcome for graduates.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$11,205
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,484
Median Earnings (5yr)
$61,275
Graduation Rate
89%
Receive Financial Aid
22%
Avg Aid Amount
N/A
Program-Level ROI
| Program | Median Earnings (5yr) | Est. 20yr ROI |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General | $97,595 | 2693% |
| Economics | $69,594 | 1444% |
| Psychology, General | $52,087 | 662% |
| Biology, General | $56,314 | 851% |
| Mathematics | $83,357 | 2058% |
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research | $46,193 | 399% |
| Finance and Financial Management Services | $157,542 | 5368% |
| Public Health | $71,766 | 1541% |
| Political Science and Government | $56,465 | 858% |
| Communication and Media Studies | $50,226 | 579% |
| Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics | $52,001 | 659% |
| Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations | $0 | N/A |
Peer Comparison
1072%
20yr ROI
669%
20yr ROI
662%
20yr ROI
692%
20yr ROI
1349%
20yr ROI
Financial Aid Impact
Before Aid
After Aid (Estimated)
Frequently Asked Questions
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.