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Best Value History Colleges in Wisconsin

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay delivers the state's most affordable History education at just $12,878 net cost, though graduates earn $26,121 annually. At the opposite end, Marquette University commands $29,237 but produces the highest-earning History graduates at $37,856 per year. Wisconsin's public universities dominate the value equation, with eight UW campuses offering net costs below $17,000. The state's manufacturing heritage creates unique opportunities for History graduates, particularly at companies like Kimberly-Clark where corporate archivists and communications specialists draw on historical research skills. UW-Madison stands out with an 89.30% graduation rate despite moderate costs, while UW-Superior offers the most accessible admissions at 95.60% acceptance. History majors benefit from Wisconsin's stable healthcare and technology sectors, where Epic Systems and GE Healthcare value analytical and communication skills that History programs develop.
28
Programs
$10,044 – $29,237
Net Price Range
$30,791
Avg. Program Earnings
61.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

28 History Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,405 $33,993 $8,487 44.1% 95.6%
2 $14,714 $36,141 $8,606 60.9% 84.5%
3 $14,785 $33,993 $8,250 64.3% 82.4%
4 $15,374 $32,925 $9,651 71.2% 74.3%
5 $16,928 $35,060 $11,205 89.3% 49.1%
6 $12,878 $26,121 $8,342 53.1% 89.6%
7 $14,754 $29,832 $8,315 61.5% 85.4%
8 $16,177 $31,205 $10,020 51.2% 86.3%
9 $13,726 $25,194 $8,834 56.0% 89.1%
10 $16,948 $26,353 $9,277 67.6% 76.6%
11 $21,176 $28,598 $50,700 59.9% 81.3%
12 $24,362 $32,382 $37,230 69.6% 72.1%
13 $24,813 $32,382 $36,500 60.5% 81.8%
14 $29,237 $37,856 $48,700 80.1% 87.2%
15 $21,924 $26,353 $58,554 67.2% 65.9%
16 $24,563 $28,019 $55,461 76.4% 72.3%
17 $25,674 $27,048 $44,432 73.6% 83.6%
18 $22,633 $32,350 65.2% 72.4%
19 $20,780 $42,491 43.3% 68.4%
20 $18,295 $34,390 58.9% 69.5%
21 $21,315 $35,080 62.7% 93.8%
22 $14,761 $8,212 57.9% 88.5%
23 $10,044 $7,855 39.8% 72.8%
24 $23,341 $33,000 41.2% 71.6%
25 $22,092 $32,286 55.7% 99.5%
26 $25,634 $34,850 67.4% 98.6%
27 $26,067 $34,250 64.3% 70.4%
28 $16,722 $32,794 50.5% 89.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UW-Green Bay such an affordable option for History students?

UW-Green Bay offers the lowest net cost at $12,878 for History students, with in-state tuition of just $8,342. The university maintains an 89.62% acceptance rate, making it accessible to most applicants. However, graduates earn $26,121 annually, which is among the lower end for Wisconsin History programs. Students save significantly on costs but should consider career planning to maximize earning potential.

How do private colleges compare to public universities for History value in Wisconsin?

Private colleges cost significantly more, with Marquette at $29,237 net cost compared to public averages around $15,000. However, Marquette graduates earn $37,856 annually, the highest in the state. Ripon College offers a middle ground at $21,176 net cost with a 59.90% graduation rate. The $14,000+ cost difference often requires 15-20 years to break even through higher earnings.

Does UW-Madison justify its higher cost among public universities?

UW-Madison charges $16,928 net cost, about $3,000 more than most UW campuses, but delivers an strong 89.30% graduation rate. Graduates earn $35,060 annually with relatively low debt at $19,500. The university's 49.06% acceptance rate makes admission competitive. Students who gain admission typically see strong returns through higher graduation rates and earning potential.

Where do Wisconsin History graduates find employment opportunities?

Wisconsin's major employers like Epic Systems, GE Healthcare, and Kimberly-Clark hire History graduates for research, communications, and analysis roles. The state's manufacturing heritage creates demand for corporate historians and archivists. Healthcare systems need policy researchers and compliance specialists who can analyze regulatory history. Government positions in Wisconsin's capital region also provide stable career paths for History majors.

Is student debt a major concern for Wisconsin History programs?

Most Wisconsin universities keep History student debt manageable, with UW-Madison graduates owing just $19,500. UW-Stevens Point keeps debt at $20,375 despite a lower net cost. Private colleges show higher debt, with Ripon at $26,838 and UW-Green Bay at $26,500. History graduates typically manage debt well due to steady employment in education, government, and corporate sectors.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.