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Cheapest Physics Colleges in Wisconsin

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Physics students in Wisconsin face a dramatic cost divide between public and private institutions, with net prices spanning from $10,044 at UW-Parkside to over $24,000 at private colleges. The University of Wisconsin system dominates affordable options, claiming the eight cheapest programs in the state. UW-Madison stands out as an strong value despite its $16,928 net price, delivering an 89.30% graduation rate that far exceeds most competitors. Wisconsin's strong manufacturing sector, anchored by companies like GE Healthcare and Epic Systems, creates natural pathways for physics graduates into medical technology and engineering roles. The state's commitment to accessible education shows through the Wisconsin Grant program, helping keep in-state tuition remarkably low across the UW system, with several campuses charging under $9,000 annually for residents.
18
Programs
$10,044 – $29,237
Net Price Range
$38,505
Avg. Program Earnings
65.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Physics Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $10,044 $7,855 39.8% 72.8%
2 $13,726 $8,834 56.0% 89.1%
3 $14,714 $8,606 60.9% 84.5%
4 $14,761 $8,212 57.9% 88.5%
5 $14,785 $8,250 64.3% 82.4%
6 $15,374 $9,651 71.2% 74.3%
7 $16,177 $10,020 51.2% 86.3%
8 $16,928 $11,205 89.3% 49.1%
9 $16,948 $9,277 67.6% 76.6%
10 $21,176 $50,700 59.9% 81.3%
11 $21,315 $35,080 62.7% 93.8%
12 $21,924 $58,554 67.2% 65.9%
13 $22,633 $32,350 65.2% 72.4%
14 $24,563 $55,461 76.4% 72.3%
15 $24,813 $36,500 60.5% 81.8%
16 $25,634 $34,850 67.4% 98.6%
17 $25,674 $44,432 73.6% 83.6%
18 $29,237 $48,700 80.1% 87.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UW-Parkside the cheapest physics program in Wisconsin?

UW-Parkside offers the lowest net price at $10,044 annually, with in-state tuition of just $7,855. The school maintains a 72.83% acceptance rate, making it accessible to most applicants. However, students should note the 39.80% graduation rate, which trails other UW system schools significantly.

How much do physics graduates earn compared to program costs?

Physics graduates from Wisconsin programs earn between $33,987 and $43,240 annually, with UW-La Crosse graduates commanding the highest salaries at $43,240. This represents strong earning potential relative to net costs, particularly for UW system graduates. Students typically carry debt loads around $19,500 to $20,500 upon graduation.

Is UW-Madison worth the higher cost among public options?

UW-Madison charges $16,928 net price but delivers an outstanding 89.30% graduation rate, the highest among Wisconsin physics programs. The school's 49.06% acceptance rate makes it the most selective option, yet graduates earn $38,289 annually. The combination of academic rigor and strong outcomes justifies the premium over other UW campuses.

Where do private college physics programs fit in Wisconsin's pricing market?

Private colleges start at $21,176 net price at Ripon College, more than double the cheapest public option. Lawrence University leads private schools with a 76.40% graduation rate despite charging $24,563 annually. Wisconsin Lutheran College offers the most affordable private option at $21,315, with a notably high 93.83% acceptance rate.

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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.