Median Earnings (1yr)
$32,345
95th percentile (40th in WI)
Median Debt
$16,722
76% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.52
Manageable
Sample Size
27
Limited data

Analysis

Rasmussen's business operations certificate significantly outperforms national benchmarks but faces stiff competition in Wisconsin. While first-year earnings of $32,345 beat the national median by nearly 30%, they trail the state median by about $900—placing this program squarely in the middle of Wisconsin's offerings despite Rasmussen's relatively high debt load of $16,722.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 means graduates owe roughly half their first-year salary, which is manageable but not exceptional. More concerning is the modest 4% earnings growth over four years, suggesting graduates quickly reach their ceiling in administrative roles. For comparison, Gateway Technical College produces similar outcomes with likely lower tuition costs for in-state students. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) adds uncertainty—these numbers could shift significantly year to year.

For families weighing this program, the key question is location flexibility. If your child needs online access or prefers Rasmussen's specific format, the outcomes are solid. But if they can attend a Wisconsin technical college, they'll likely achieve comparable earnings with less debt. The high Pell grant percentage (57%) suggests this program serves students who need flexible options, which may justify the premium—just ensure your child has a clear plan for moving beyond entry-level administrative work within a few years.

Where Rasmussen University-Wisconsin Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business operations support and assistant services certificate's programs nationally

Rasmussen University-WisconsinOther business operations support and assistant services programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Rasmussen University-Wisconsin graduates compare to all programs nationally

Rasmussen University-Wisconsin graduates earn $32k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all business operations support and assistant services certificate programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin

Business Operations Support and Assistant Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (21 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Rasmussen University-Wisconsin$32,345$33,600$16,7220.52
Gateway Technical College$34,203—$18,0200.53
National Median$25,094—$9,5000.38

Other Business Operations Support and Assistant Services Programs in Wisconsin

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Wisconsin schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Gateway Technical College
Kenosha
$4,853$34,203$18,020

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 Rasmussen University-Wisconsin, approximately 57% 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 27 graduates with reported earnings and 65 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.