In the following ranking, we highlight the top 20 best affordable colleges in Wisconsin for bachelor’s degrees. Like several of its Midwestern neighbors, Wisconsin leads the pack in terms of affordable higher education, particularly due to its overall rural geography and relatively low cost of living. While there are, of course, expensive colleges and universities throughout the state, the cost is well-justified in most cases. Supportive local communities, pristine views of Mother Nature, active student populations, and rigorous, high-quality academics can be found on nearly every Wisconsin campus, and those who choose to attend either a small private college or large state university are sure to be pleased not only with their college experiences but also their bank accounts. In fact, schools associated with the University of Wisconsin System hold 13 out of the following 20 spots, serving as evidence that there are plenty of public affordable colleges in Wisconsin to choose from.
Methodology
In order to compile our initial list of schools, we conducted a search for colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in Wisconsin using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) website. We then awarded points as outlined below based on three key metrics, including tuition rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and graduation rates, in order to measure affordability, class size, and student success, respectively. We also checked each school’s website to verify our data and figures were accurate and current.
Average Cost of Attendance
Although tempting, prospective students should avoid choosing the school with the lowest tuition just for the sake of saving money and instead focus on the affordable colleges in Wisconsin that offer the best possible academic experience. In other words, what is the point of spending thousands of dollars on a degree, even if it is the cheapest in the state, if it is not the major you wish to pursue? For this ranking, we awarded points and ranked schools based on the cost of tuition for one year of study for in-state students according to data from NCES. We also provided rates for out-of-state students for your reference.
Points:
Under $7,500: 3 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 2 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Whereas small private colleges that report low student-to-faculty ratios and, therefore, small classes may be more likely to provide academic support and opportunities for students to develop close relationships with their professors, large public universities with high student-to-faculty ratios may offer more majors and concentration areas to their students. When considering the size of the school and the number of students per class, keep in mind that every student is different, and what works for you might differ from the next student. However, for this article, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities with the lowest ratios from NCES.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
We used each school’s graduation rate as reported from NCES as our third and final ranking factor. This figure paints an important picture of the quality of each school since students who are satisfied with their programs are more likely to remain at that institution and graduate with their degree. On the other hand, schools with low graduation rates may be providing programs that students feel are unaffordable or poor quality, or they might be lacking in another area that is causing undergraduates to leave and earn their degree elsewhere. Therefore, the highest number of points went to schools with the highest graduation rates.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 20 Best Affordable Colleges in Wisconsin
20. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Points: 5
School Website
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a public research university and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. Established as Milwaukee Normal School in 1885, UWM is not only the largest university in the Milwaukee metropolitan area, but it is also the second-largest university by enrollment in the state and one of only two doctoral degree-granting public institutions of higher education. UWM confers 195 affordable academic programs, including 92 undergraduate degrees, to more than 27,400 students through 15 colleges and schools. Popular cheap degree programs at this affordable Wisconsin college include nursing, marketing, communications, and finance as well as education, psychology, information science, and operations management. All students benefit from practical experience in field placements and internships, opportunities for advanced inquiry through research, and high-quality instruction. From hundreds of on-campus student clubs and organizations to the off-campus amenities of a major city, the possibilities at UWM are endless.
In-State Tuition: $9,588
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,867
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
19. University of Wisconsin-Superior
Superior, Wisconsin
Points: 5
School Website
The University of Wisconsin-Superior is a low-cost public university that grants cheap undergraduate and graduate degrees to nearly 2,600 students. The most popular inexpensive degree programs at UWS include education, communicating arts, business administration, biology, and physical education as well as unique and affordable programs in transportation and logistics management and art therapy. The school’s 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio gives professors and faculty time to mentor, challenge, and engage students. Students apply what they have learned to projects that meet the real needs of their communities through the school’s Academic Service-Learning program, performing more than 27,000 hours of community service each year. Approximately 95 percent of graduates from this affordable Wisconsin university are either continuing their education or employed within six months of earning their degree.
In-State Tuition: $8,126
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,699
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
18. Alverno College
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Alverno College, located in Milwaukee, is a Roman Catholic liberal arts college that operates primarily as a women’s college. Established as St. Joseph’s Normal School in 1887, Alverno is one of the most affordable colleges in Wisconsin for students looking to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Students receive a world-class education combined with an engaging student community, real-world applications, and high academic standards that make up a comprehensive college experience. The top-value school offers an impressive range of economical majors and minors as well as several pre-professional programs to prepare students for entry to graduate schools. Low-cost degree programs at the undergraduate level include pharmaceutical sciences, molecular biology, media design, integrated natural sciences, global studies and international affairs, education, and art therapy. Campus life is inviting, active, and vibrant, and students may participate in more than 30 student organizations, watch or participate in NCAA Division III athletics, or enjoy weekly events such as comedy shows, karaoke, and concerts.
In-State Tuition: $28,302
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,302
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
17. Viterbo University
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Located in La Crosse, Viterbo University is an affordable university in Wisconsin that offers more than 70 high-value academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Founded in 1890, the school is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church and a member of the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities. Students may choose from a variety of economical bachelor’s degrees in business administration, criminal and community justice, healthcare and wellness management, neuroscience, nutrition sciences, and religious studies and theology. In addition to offering rigorous degrees, the school also boasts fantastic research opportunities, paid internships, and a 99 percent placement rate for graduates. Students may get involved with more than 80 student organizations and activities based on service, leadership, social justice, and academic interests. On-campus activities include comedians, hypnotists, open mic nights, casino nights, and more.
In-State Tuition: $27,970
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,970
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 62 percent
16. Marian University
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Marian University is a Roman Catholic liberal arts institution of higher learning located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Founded by the Congregation of Sisters of Saint Agnes in 1936, Marian focuses on combining rigorous academics with service learning and on-the-job training. Top-value undergraduate degrees are available in fields such as sport and recreation management, healthcare administration, expressive and therapeutic arts, nursing, diagnostic medical sonography, forensic science, business administration, and cytotechnology. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 and an average class size of 15 students, those pursuing an affordable degree in Wisconsin at Marian are prepared to either begin graduate study or enter their respective fields. Students are encouraged to participate in the Marian community by joining a club or pre-professional organization, pursuing independent interests, or playing on one of the school’s 15 NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletic teams.
In-State Tuition: $27,400
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,400
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
15. Bellin College
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Bellin College is a high-value college in Wisconsin that provides students with an education that prepares them to meet the demands of a rapidly changing healthcare environment. Established in 1909, the school is located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and it is one of the state’s premier private institutions of higher learning specializing in medical imaging and nursing at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students may choose from a low-cost Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences, a Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as well as a Master of Science in Nursing with concentrations in either Nurse Educator or Family Nurse Practitioner. The school offers extensive hands-on practice, a focused curriculum, and state-of-the-art healthcare technology and simulation labs. Students pursuing an affordable four-year degree in Wisconsin from Bellin also benefit from small class sizes and outstanding faculty. In addition, Bellin works with more than 85 clinical partners, making it easy for undergraduates to gain hands-on, real-world experience across different settings.
In-State Tuition: $20,500
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,500
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 74 percent
14. Maranatha Baptist University
Watertown, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Prospective students seeking an affordable accredited college in Wisconsin may wish to consider Maranatha Baptist University. Located in Watertown, MBU is one of the most affordable colleges in Wisconsin and builds upon its rich heritage of faithfulness to biblical Baptist ideals and to God’s Word. The school offers more than 40 high-quality inexpensive degrees through its College of Bible and Church Ministries, School of Business, School of Education, the Maranatha Baptist Seminary, and the Department of Online and Distance Learning. Popular affoprdable degree programs include Bible and church ministries, nursing, the humanities, business, and education as well as liberal arts-focused programs in English, music, and biology. The school emphasizes service, and many students serve in the local community, in churches, and across the globe. In fact, roughly one-third of the student body participates in Maranatha’s Global Encounters initiative which involves mission trips to various locations such as Uganda and Asia.
In-State Tuition: $15,410
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,410
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
13. University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
A low-cost university in Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin System that enrolls more than 43,000 students each year. Founded in 1848 when Wisconsin achieved statehood, it is the oldest and largest institution of higher learning in the state. UW offers more than 9,200 courses, 232 undergraduate majors, and more than 250 master’s, doctoral, and professional programs. Popular affordable degree programs include biology-related options in neurobiology, conservation biology, and biological systems engineering as well as an English program with multiple concentrations in literature, language and linguistics, and creative writing. Students have limitless opportunities for academic growth, and those looking for inexpensive college courses in Wisconsin also benefit from internships, international programs, research, and other initiatives both inside and outside of the classroom. In fact, more than 1,000 UW students participate in more than 200 study-abroad programs offered in more than 60 countries.
In-State Tuition: $10,555
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,805
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 87 percent
12. University of Wisconsin-Stout
Menomonie, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Located in Menomonie, the University of Wisconsin-Stout is an inexpensive university in Wisconsin and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. Named in honor of its founder, lumber magnate James Huff Stout, UW-Stout enrolls more than 9,600 students each year and is known as Wisconsin’s polytechnic institution. The school combines a liberal arts education with applied learning and offers 50 low-cost undergraduate and 22 graduate degrees as well as three advanced programs. Popular affordable degree programs include a bachelor’s in health, wellness, and fitness as well as a degree in engineering technology with emphases in plastics, mechanical design, production operation, and electrical. Emphasizing hands-on experience, UW-Stout operates several research centers and facilities at its campus, including the Applied Research Center, the User Experience Center, and the Fab Lab, a workspace for high-tech, creative innovators and students who wish to design, prototype, and build their ideas. According to UW-Stout, 98.7 percent of graduates are either employed or continuing their education after earning their degree.
In-State Tuition: $9,457
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,424
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
11. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a cost-effective university in Wisconsin. Founded in 1909, it is a member of the University of Wisconsin System and awards low-cost undergraduate and graduate degrees to more than 10,500 students from 41 states and 31 countries. UWL is comprised of the School of Education, School of Visual and Performing Arts, College of Science and Health, College of Business Administration, and the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Nationally recognized affordable programs include a top-ranked degree in archaeological studies at the undergraduate level, the only one of its kind in the Midwest, and graduate degrees in physician assistant, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. The school also teams up with UW-Platteville, UW-Milwaukee, UW-Madison, and the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to confer a dual engineering degree. A vibrant community at UWL encourages leadership and engagement, and student activities include departmental and professional societies, honor and recognition societies, and human diversity organizations, Greek life, and sports clubs.
In-State Tuition: $9,107
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,776
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 71 percent
10. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Prospective students looking for low-cost colleges in Wisconsin may consider attending the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, UWEC is a public liberal arts university and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. Students may choose from more than 80 cheap undergraduate programs and 14 graduate programs, and every course is taught by a professor rather than a teaching assistant. Available inexpensive options include degrees in American Indian studies, business administration, communication sciences and disorders, geology, kinesiology, and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies. Pre-professional programs are also offered in engineering, law, and health sciences with nine areas of focus. UWEC is home to one of the most active student bodies in the state; more than 50 percent of its population participate in intramural sports, more than 25 club sports, or outdoor trips through the school’s Environmental Adventure Center.
In-State Tuition: $8,820
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,095
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Graduation Rate: 67 percent
9. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is an affordable accredited university in Wisconsin and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. Enrolling more than 8,600 students, UW-Stevens Point also operates campuses in Marshfield and Wausau as well as online. Students can explore more than 120 cheap undergraduate programs in 48 majors and 78 minors. UW-Stevens Point offers a broad-based curriculum and provides opportunities for hands-on learning both inside and outside of the classroom. UW-Stevens Point is comprised of four colleges: the College of Professional Studies, College of Natural Resources, College of Letters and Science, and the College of Fine Arts and Communication. Popular low-cost degree programs include a bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology in which students learn about environmental law enforcement and conservation as well as its programs in astronomy and physics. In addition to offering rigorous academic programs, UW-Stevens Point is also known for its sustainability efforts, becoming the first university in the state to attain 100 percent renewable electricity.
In-State Tuition: $8,239
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,506
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 62 percent
8. University of Wisconsin-River Falls
River Falls, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Founded in 1874, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls is one of 13 schools that make up the University of Wisconsin System. Located just 30 minutes from the Twin Cities in the beautiful St. Croix Valley, UWRF is not only a top-value university in Wisconsin but also a leader in sustainability, undergraduate research, and exemplary teaching. The school offers more than 70 areas of study through four colleges: Education and Professional Studies, Business and Economics, Arts and Sciences, and Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Science. UWRF is home to the second-largest undergraduate dairy science program in the country, and other popular cheap degree programs include communication and journalism, biology, business, animal sciences and husbandry, and agriculture. Outside of the classroom, students may participate in 17 varsity sports and more than 150 student clubs and organizations.
In-State Tuition: $8,025
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,598
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
7. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a nationally ranked and top-value university in Wisconsin. Located in Green Bay, UW-Green Bay also operates branch campuses in Marinette, Manitowoc, and Sheboygan. UW-Green Bay offers more than 45 cheap majors, minors, and areas of emphasis, including seven pre-professional programs such as pre-law and pre-med. The school also offers an affordable online undergraduate degree and six low-cost online graduate programs for students seeking distance education in Wisconsin. The school’s fastest-growing major is engineering technology, and students may pursue inexpensive degrees with an electrical, mechanical, or environmental focus. Other unique areas of study include First Nations education, democracy and justice studies, environmental policy and planning, and geoscience. Outside of the classroom, student groups offer professional, service, and social opportunities for attendees within both the school itself as well as the local community.
In-State Tuition: $7,878
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,728
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
6. University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Platteville, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Ranked as the best-value university in Wisconsin in terms of annual return on investment (ROI), the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is a public university and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. UW-Platteville offers a wide variety of cheap undergraduate and graduate programs, delivered online and face-to-face, to suit nearly any career goal and interest. Internship opportunities provide real-life experience, while early hands-on learning teaches practical skills. Affordable areas of study at UW-Platteville include thriving top-value programs in agribusiness with concentrations in marketing and communications, sustainable and renewable energy systems, and dairy science. Outside of the classroom, a vibrant community and campus create an ideal environment for involvement and engagement, including more than 200 clubs and organizations, 16 NCAA Division III athletic teams, and more than 80 annual events ranging from dollar movie nights to musicians and comedians.
In-State Tuition: $7,796
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,646
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
5. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Students looking for a cheap university in Wisconsin may consider the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, a residential university in Whitewater and a member campus of the University of Wisconsin System. The school serves more than 13,000 students at its main campus and at its second location in Rock County, offering affordable undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as a low-cost doctoral program and an education specialist degree. Whether a student plans to pursue a top-value program in education, biology, accounting, or another major out of more than 50 available options, UW-Whitewater strives to inspire, engage, and transform lives. The school’s championship tradition extends from its NCAA Division III athletic teams to its award-winning American Marketing Association, game development, forensics, and media arts teams. On-campus students can take advantage of Warhawk Alley, the school’s state-of-the-art entertainment space that boasts video games, billiard tables, a bowling alley, and more.
In-State Tuition: $7,692
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,265
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
4. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, ranked among the top affordable colleges in Wisconsin, is a public university and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. Established in 1868, the school operates two additional campuses in Fond du Lac and Fox Valley, and it enrolls more than 10,700 students per year, 44 percent of whom are first-generation students. UW-Oshkosh confers 200 inexpensive majors, minors, and emphasis areas through the College of Letters and Science, College of Business, College of Education and Human Services, College of Nursing, and an Honors College. From a highly respected business program to the second-largest nursing program in the state, UW-Oshkosh’s affordable academic options provide students with award-winning professors, nationally accredited programs, and a comprehensive liberal arts foundation. UW-Oshkosh also emphasizes student involvement and engagement, offering more than 180 student organizations based on academic, personal, and social interests as well as 19 NCAA Division III athletic teams, 14 club sports, and more than 40 intramural sports.
In-State Tuition: $7,621
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,194
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
3. University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Kenosha, Wisconsin
Points: 6
School Website
Ranked among the most affordable colleges in Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside is a four-year public institution of higher learning located in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The school’s stunning 720-acre campus, covered with wildlife, prairies, ponds, streams, and woods, allows for easy access to both Milwaukee and Chicago as well as more than 500 internship opportunities with major companies. UW-Parkside is known for signature programs such as cheap degrees in computer science, criminal justice, pre-health, and theater arts. The vibrant campus community includes more than 70 student clubs and organizations based on academic, cultural, Greek, leadership, lifestyle, spiritual, service, and recreational interests. The school is also home to an award-winning theater known for its drama, comedy, tragedy, and musical productions as well as for its Parkside Range contemporary a capella group.
In-State Tuition: $7,389
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,378
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 38 percent
2. Cardinal Stritch University
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Points: 7
School Website
Established in 1937 as a teaching institution for the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, Cardinal Stretch University is now recognized as one of the most affordable colleges in Wisconsin. Located in Milwaukee, Stritch enrolls more than 2,400 students and confers more than 60 top-value undergraduate and graduate degree programs that allow students plenty of opportunities to build professional networks, gain career-related experience, and develop new skills. Stritch is recognized throughout the state for its economical programs in the sciences, nursing, liberal arts, leadership, education, business, and the arts. Stritch encourages personal, spiritual, and academic growth through leadership opportunities, services, and programs that enrich the student experience. Students may get involved through on-campus clubs and organizations, study-abroad programs, community engagement, experiential learning and career education, and the performing arts.
In-State Tuition: $29,998
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,998
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 51 percent
1. Edgewood College
Madison, Wisconsin
Points: 7
School Website
Edgewood College, a private Dominican liberal arts institution of higher education, is located on a 55-acre campus in Madison, Wisconsin that overlooks the shores of Lake Wingra. Edgewood tops our list not only as the best affordable colleges in Wisconsin but also as a top-rated school that boasts a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a solid 63 percent graduation rate. The school’s 3,000 students may pursue more than 60 high-value majors, 40 minors, and 27 graduate degrees, including unique programs such as cytotechnology, natural science, art and design teaching, child life, and music promotion and industry. Student life at Edgewood is comprised of campus events, diversity workshops and seminars, leadership programs and resources, clubs and organizations, athletics, and special events such as Family Weekend, Fall Fest, Winter Frost, and Multicultural Graduation.
In-State Tuition: $29,500
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,500
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Most In-Demand Careers in Wisconsin for Graduates with a Bachelor’s Degree?
As you begin to narrow down your college search, we hope that you are keeping your future major and/or career in mind. If you haven’t yet decided on a professional path, it may be helpful to get an understanding of the fastest-growing, most in-demand careers in the state. According to WisConomy at the Job Center of Wisconsin, the following are the top 10 in-demand careers for students graduating with a bachelor’s in Wisconsin as well as the projected percentage change in employment between 2016 and 2026:
- Aerospace Engineers: 64.20 percent
- Gaming Change Persons and Booth Cashiers: 37.28 percent
- Slot Supervisors: 36.05 percent
- Veterinary Technologists and Technicians: 34.38 percent
- Gaming Supervisors: 33.64 percent
- Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas: 33.33 percent
- Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers: 32.39 percent
- Software Developers, Applications: 31.70 percent
- Operations Research Analysts: 30.20 percent
- Personal Care Aides: 29.72 percent
What are the Highest-Paying Jobs in Wisconsin?
Knowing the top-paying occupations for graduates who pursue a degree from one of the affordable colleges in Wisconsin above can come in handy, particularly if a prospective student is unsure about the career path that he or she wishes to follow. To obtain the most accurate information possible, we pulled data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) that was calculated using figures from employers in all industry sectors in nonmetropolitan and metropolitan areas throughout the state. According to the BLS, the annual mean wage for all occupations was $47,350 as of May 2018. The top five highest-paid jobs include obstetricians and gynecologists, pediatricians, anesthesiologists, internists, and family and general practitioners.
However, we felt it necessary to provide figures for occupations that did not require a medical degree and that one could pursue with only a bachelor’s or with a bachelor’s and additional training, certification, licensure, or fieldwork. Below are five top-paying jobs for bachelor’s recipients in Wisconsin:
- Sales Managers: $135,940
- Financial Managers: $134,850
- General and Operations Managers: $126,950
- Marketing Managers: $125,100
- Computer and Information Systems Managers: $124,770
- Architectural and Engineering Managers: $122,400
- Human Resources Managers: $118,330
- Personal Financial Advisors: $115,820
- Compensation and Benefits Managers: $114,280
- Construction Managers: $113,270
What are the Best Schools in Wisconsin for Bachelor’s Recipients?
If you are preparing to earn your bachelor’s degree from one of the affordable colleges in Wisconsin we detailed above, it is important to consider how your investment will benefit you in the long run. Below, we have ranked five schools in order from the highest return on investment (ROI) to the lowest ROI based on how much a graduate can earn over 20 years after completing his or her undergraduate program, according to PayScale. We also provided salary information that one can expect to earn after graduating with a bachelor’s degree from the following colleges and universities.
- 1. University of Wisconsin-Platteville
– 20-Year Net ROI: $451,000
– Early Career Pay: $56,000
– Mid-Career Pay: $95,200 - 2. University of Wisconsin-Madison
– 20-Year Net ROI: $423,000
– Early Career Pay: $55,700
– Mid-Career Pay: $101,800 - 3. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
– 20-Year Net ROI: $357,000
– Early Career Pay: $51,100
– Mid-Career Pay: $91,500 - 4. Cardinal Stritch University
– 20-Year Net ROI: $324,000
– Early Career Pay: $48,200
– Mid-Career Pay: $77,900 - 5. University of Wisconsin-Stout
– 20-Year Net ROI: $318,000
– Early Career Pay: $49,700
– Mid-Career Pay: $87,000
In the Badger State, there are a number of schools that offer an amazing value for the cost of tuition. These institutions also enjoy close proximity to huge expanses of pristine, natural wildlife, thousands of small inland lakes, two Great Lakes, and a handful of cosmopolitan, vibrant cities. Given the state’s reputation as the dairyland of America, students also enjoy access to some of the best dairy products in the world, and it is no wonder that agriculture is one of the top industries throughout the state. Whether you would like to attend one of the top-ranked schools associated with the University of Wisconsin due to their high ROI or simply because of your love for milk, we hope that the above list of the best affordable colleges in Wisconsin for bachelor’s degrees helps you choose the best college to meet your needs.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 20 best affordable colleges in Wisconsin for bachelor’s degrees.
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