Economics at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

UW-Eau Claire's economics program sits squarely in the middle: its graduates earn exactly the state median ($51,344) initially, placing it 60th percentile among Wisconsin's 21 economics programs. The $21,500 median debt is notably lower than both the state median ($23,718) and national benchmark ($22,816), creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 that most families would find manageable. Four-year earnings climb to $58,841, matching the national 75th percentile—a respectable trajectory that suggests the degree provides solid career momentum.

The challenge here is the small sample size (under 30 graduates), which means one or two atypical outcomes could skew these numbers significantly. Still, the underlying value proposition looks reasonable: you're paying less in debt than at most Wisconsin competitors while landing at median earnings initially and above-average earnings by year four. Compare this to pricier options like Saint Norbert ($53,350 starting) or UW-Madison ($54,495), and the value becomes clearer—you're getting similar outcomes for less borrowing.

For families seeking an affordable economics degree without the pressure of Madison's competitiveness, this works. Just recognize you're choosing solid over spectacular, and the small graduate cohort means these numbers could shift year to year.