Analysis
Herzing University-Madison's computer programming degree shows promising earnings trajectory despite serving a predominantly high-need student population. While starting salaries of $50,242 place graduates at the national median, earnings jump 47% to $74,000 within four years—pushing well above the national 75th percentile of $72,414. Among Wisconsin's limited programming options, this program ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while maintaining relatively manageable debt loads in the 25th percentile nationally.
The 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio is encouraging for families concerned about loan burden, especially given that two-thirds of students here receive Pell grants. That $31,050 in median debt becomes far more manageable once graduates reach those mid-career earnings levels. The strong earnings growth suggests graduates are gaining valuable skills that translate to career advancement—not just entry-level coding jobs.
The major caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes may vary considerably. Still, for Wisconsin families seeking an accessible tech pathway, the combination of reasonable debt and solid mid-career earnings makes this worth serious consideration, particularly if your student needs flexible scheduling or support services that come with Herzing's high-access model. Just ensure your child is prepared for the self-motivation required at an open-enrollment institution.
Where Herzing University-Madison Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer programming bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Herzing University-Madison graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herzing University-Madison | $50,242 | $74,006 | +47% |
| DigiPen Institute of Technology | $102,580 | $122,323 | +19% |
| University of Michigan-Dearborn | $80,830 | $94,556 | +17% |
| Herzing University-Kenosha | $50,242 | $74,006 | +47% |
| Herzing University-Brookfield | $50,242 | $74,006 | +47% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Computer Programming bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,420 | $50,242 | $74,006 | $31,050 | 0.62 | |
| $13,420 | $50,242 | $74,006 | $31,050 | 0.62 | |
| $13,420 | $50,242 | $74,006 | $31,050 | 0.62 | |
| National Median | — | $50,242 | — | $31,050 | 0.62 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer programming graduates
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Network Support Specialists
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 Herzing University-Madison, approximately 67% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 28 graduates with reported earnings and 26 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.