Analysis
Wisconsin's Romance Languages programs produce notably variable outcomes, with top earners reaching the low $40,000s and others landing closer to $37,000. Based on comparable programs in the state, Edgewood's estimated first-year earnings of $37,018 sit at the median—neither leading the pack nor falling behind. The estimated debt of $25,490 runs slightly higher than Wisconsin's typical $24,050, though it stays below the national benchmark of $22,722. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69, graduates would likely face manageable monthly payments, though not the most comfortable margin for building financial security early in their careers.
The challenge here isn't the debt load itself but what this field typically pays in the first year. Even the highest-earning Romance Languages programs in Wisconsin only reach the low $40,000s, meaning this isn't a credential where you can expect vastly better outcomes by simply choosing a different school. The question becomes whether your child has a clear career path that justifies this investment—perhaps teaching, translation, international business, or graduate school—where language skills convert into stronger earning potential over time.
Since these figures are estimates based on peer programs rather than Edgewood's actual graduate outcomes, ask the admissions office directly about employment patterns and whether alumni typically pursue additional credentials. Understanding where graduates actually land matters more than projected medians when the sample is too small to report.
Where Edgewood College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all romance languages, literatures, and linguistics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $34,850 | $37,018* | — | $25,490* | — | |
| $8,342 | $43,126* | $48,968 | $26,500* | 0.61 | |
| $8,250 | $42,722* | $46,775 | $25,714* | 0.60 | |
| $9,277 | $41,109* | $48,143 | $23,524* | 0.57 | |
| $48,700 | $41,033* | $50,344 | $19,500* | 0.48 | |
| $9,651 | $37,018* | $45,203 | $24,747* | 0.67 | |
| National Median | — | $34,497* | — | $22,722* | 0.66 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with romance languages, literatures, and linguistics graduates
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 9 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.