Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Herzing University-Madison

Herzing University-Madison's IT management program sits right at the median for Wisconsin but carries debt that's substantially higher than typical. With first-year earnings of $57,229 and $41,837 in median debt, graduates face manageable but elevated repayment obligations—the 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio means debt equals roughly nine months of income, compared to just six months at the national level.

What's working here is the relative position within Wisconsin: ranking in the 60th percentile for state earnings means this program outperforms three of five competing programs, including UW-Oshkosh by nearly $11,000. The 10% earnings growth over four years also suggests graduates gain traction in their careers. However, that $41,837 debt figure stands out sharply against the $27,000 national median—you're paying 55% more in debt for essentially median earnings.

The bottom line: This program serves Herzing's largely working-class student body (67% receive Pell grants) reasonably well within Wisconsin's options, but the debt premium is real. If your child can access UW-Oshkosh or another public option with lower borrowing costs, the earnings advantage here probably doesn't justify the extra $15,000 in debt. If Herzing's schedule flexibility or location makes it uniquely accessible, the outcomes are solid enough to justify enrollment—just minimize borrowing wherever possible.