At $10,044/yr net price, University of Wisconsin-Parkside graduates earn $51,129/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $17,129/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,044 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,176 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $51,129/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$17,129/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 39.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,492 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,551/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,109/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,670/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,941/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,329/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $56,641 | $24,250 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $44,830 | $14,915 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $42,682 | $18,068 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $40,647 | $18,649 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $34,526 | $19,500 |
| Sociology. | Bachelor | $33,565 | $18,500 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $32,569 | $20,625 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $28,236 | $21,166 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $26,353 | $21,987 |
The Risk Factor
39.8% of students at University of Wisconsin-Parkside graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
University of Wisconsin-Parkside delivers strong financial value with a low net price that makes college debt manageable for most graduates. The school's computer science program stands out as the clear winner financially, generating median earnings that justify even the higher debt load typical for that major.
Your best financial bets at UW-Parkside are business-focused programs. Computer science leads with strong earning potential, while accounting offers solid returns with relatively low debt. The general business and marketing programs provide decent earnings with moderate debt loads, making them safe choices for career flexibility in the Milwaukee-Chicago corridor.
Criminal justice represents the weakest financial outcome, with earnings that barely exceed what you might earn with just a high school diploma while still carrying substantial debt. The low graduation rate of 40% poses the biggest financial risk at this school - you face significant odds of leaving with debt but no degree to show for it.
UW-Parkside works best for Wisconsin residents seeking affordable access to solid business and technology programs without the premium costs of flagship universities. The school makes sense if you need to stay local for work or family reasons while building career credentials. You should look elsewhere if you need extensive academic support services or want prestige that opens doors nationally.
The relatively low percentage of students receiving aid suggests merit opportunities may be limited, but the school's low sticker price reduces the need for extensive financial assistance. Focus on completing your degree quickly to maximize the return on this affordable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Wisconsin-Parkside worth the cost?
UW-Parkside offers decent value with a low net price of $10,044 annually and median debt under $21,000. However, the 40% graduation rate is concerning and could leave you with debt but no degree.
What are the best paying majors at University of Wisconsin-Parkside?
Computer Science graduates earn the most at $56,641 annually, followed by Accounting at $44,830. Criminal Justice majors earn significantly less at $34,526, making it a riskier investment.
How much student debt do University of Wisconsin-Parkside graduates have?
The median debt is $20,492, which is manageable compared to national averages. With the low annual cost, most students can keep borrowing reasonable if they graduate on time.
What is the job market like for University of Wisconsin-Parkside graduates?
Average earnings of $51,129 after 10 years are modest but reasonable given the low cost. The key risk is the poor graduation rate, which means many students may not complete their programs.