Madison, WI

University of Wisconsin-Madison cost, outcomes, and value

University of Wisconsin-Madison is a public institution in Madison, WI. This guide brings cost, debt, completion, and earnings signals into one decision-focused view.

Average net price$17K

School-wide historical average

Median earnings$74K

10 years after entry

Median debt$20K

Completers where reported

Graduation rate90%

150% of normal time

College planning perspective

University of Wisconsin-Madison may be a practical option for students who want to compare a public school in Madison, WI against clear cost and outcome signals. Its average net price is $17K, which is near the middle of this sample. Reported median earnings are $74K, which is near the middle of this sample, while median completer debt is $20K, a debt signal that is near the middle of this sample. The graduation rate is 90%, which is near the middle of this sample; that matters because taking extra terms can raise housing, fees, and borrowing.

The main value question is whether University of Wisconsin-Madison keeps costs manageable while still offering enough completion and earnings support for the student's intended path. Families comparing this school should also review nearby or similar options such as Purdue University-Main Campus and The University of Texas at Austin, then test different academic interests such as Healthcare Administration or Data Science. Who should consider this school? Students who see a realistic aid package, can keep borrowing in a comfortable range, and want to evaluate reported earnings of $74K, a graduation rate of 90%, and an average net price of $17K before deciding may want to keep it on the shortlist. Final costs should still be verified with official school and aid sources.

Cost overview

University of Wisconsin-Madison reports an average net price of $17K. Tuition is $12K for in-state students and $42K for out-of-state students where reported. Families should compare this against grants, scholarships, housing, and likely borrowing.

Outcomes overview

Reported median earnings are $74K. This is not a guaranteed salary, but it helps compare the long-term payoff side of the college decision.

Debt discussion

Median debt for completers is $20K. A lower debt load can make monthly repayment easier after graduation, especially when earnings are still uncertain.

Graduation discussion

The reported graduation rate is 90%. Completion matters because extra time in school can increase tuition, living costs, and borrowing.

TuitionLuma insight

TuitionLuma weighs the tradeoff: average net price is $17K, reported median earnings are $74K, median completer debt is $20K, and the graduation rate is 90%.

Who should consider this school?

University of Wisconsin-Madison may be worth a closer look for students who want a public option and plan to compare personalized aid, debt, and program outcomes before committing. It may require extra review if your estimated net cost is far above the reported average or if your intended program has limited outcome data.

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