Analysis
UW-Green Bay's social sciences graduates start below the national average at $32,860, landing in just the 25th percentile nationally. But here's what matters for Wisconsin families: this program sits at the 60th percentile within the state, and graduates see strong earnings momentum, jumping to $42,509 by year four—a 29% increase that closes most of the national gap. For an accessible program at an 88% acceptance rate, that trajectory is noteworthy.
The $25,125 in debt is almost identical to both state and national medians, creating a manageable 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio at the outset. As earnings climb toward the mid-$40s, that debt burden becomes increasingly reasonable. The real question is whether social sciences aligns with your child's career goals—these fields often require graduate education for higher earnings, so consider this bachelor's degree as a foundation rather than a terminal credential.
For families prioritizing in-state tuition and concerned about job market entry points, the earnings growth pattern here is encouraging. The modest starting salary reflects typical social sciences outcomes, but the four-year gains suggest graduates are finding their footing in Wisconsin's job market. Just understand you're investing in a degree that typically pays off through career development rather than immediate high earnings.
Where University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Wisconsin-Green Bay 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | $32,860 | $42,509 | +29% |
| University of California-Berkeley | $61,109 | $97,257 | +59% |
| Columbia University in the City of New York | $34,845 | $62,428 | +79% |
| Boston University | $48,243 | $61,389 | +27% |
| University of Rochester | $37,491 | $61,172 | +63% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Social Sciences bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,342 | $32,860 | $42,509 | $25,125 | 0.76 | |
| $14,850 | $61,109 | $97,257 | $15,000 | 0.25 | |
| $7,410 | $54,265 | — | $12,500 | 0.23 | |
| $17,239 | $51,753 | $59,341 | $25,000 | 0.48 | |
| $65,168 | $48,243 | $61,389 | — | — | |
| $11,380 | $45,509 | — | — | — | |
| National Median | — | $36,279 | — | $25,500 | 0.70 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social sciences 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 University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, 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.
Sample Size: Based on 33 graduates with reported earnings and 34 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.