Analysis
Wisconsin business programs show substantial variation in outcomes, with Edgewood's estimated early earnings of around $52,500 landing near the state median but well behind Madison's $68,000 and even public alternatives like UW-Oshkosh at $58,000. What partially offsets this gap is the estimated debt load of $28,000, which translates to a manageable half-year's salary burden—slightly above the state median but reasonable for a business degree. The four-year earnings figure of $64,500 suggests decent growth potential, though without first-year data specific to Edgewood's own graduates, it's difficult to assess whether the program truly delivers that trajectory.
The more significant question is value relative to alternatives. With a 95% admission rate, Edgewood offers accessibility, but comparable programs at UW-Oshkosh or even Rasmussen appear to produce stronger early earnings at similar or lower debt levels. The $12,000 earnings gap between peer programs in Madison might not sound dramatic initially, but compounded over a career, that differential becomes substantial—particularly when you're starting with similar debt obligations.
For families focused on return on investment, peer programs in Wisconsin suggest you'll likely need to scrutinize Edgewood's specific career services, employer connections, and alumni networks. Business is a field where institutional relationships matter considerably, and the estimated figures here don't reveal whether Edgewood delivers advantages that justify choosing it over stronger-performing state options nearby.
Where Edgewood College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edgewood College | — | $64,561 | — |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | $67,699 | $81,952 | +21% |
| Marquette University | $63,285 | $73,164 | +16% |
| University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $56,774 | $66,918 | +18% |
| Carthage College | $53,555 | $65,523 | +22% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (37 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $34,850 | $52,521* | $64,561 | $28,156* | — | |
| $11,205 | $67,699* | $81,952 | $20,500* | 0.30 | |
| $48,700 | $63,285* | $73,164 | $26,633* | 0.42 | |
| $48,421 | $60,187* | — | —* | — | |
| $11,982 | $59,693* | $56,566 | $37,315* | 0.63 | |
| $8,212 | $57,809* | $63,085 | $25,000* | 0.43 | |
| National Median | — | $45,703* | — | $26,000* | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Edgewood College, approximately 23% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 29 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.