Geography and Cartography at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

With fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these numbers offer only a snapshot, but they suggest UW-La Crosse's geography program sits comfortably in Wisconsin's middle tier. Graduates start at $37,537—ranking 60th percentile statewide—and see solid 22% earnings growth to $45,633 by year four. For context, that trails UW-Madison's outcomes by about $3,500 initially but lands ahead of UW-Milwaukee. The $23,850 debt load equals the state median and represents a manageable 0.64 times first-year earnings.

The program's national 45th percentile ranking might seem modest, but Wisconsin's geography graduates generally earn less than the national median, so performing at the state's 60th percentile matters more for families weighing in-state options. The trajectory matters too—that 22% earnings bump suggests graduates find their footing relatively quickly, likely moving from entry-level GIS technician roles into positions with more responsibility.

For families considering this program, the small cohort size warrants caution—outcomes could shift dramatically year to year. But the fundamentals look reasonable: moderate debt, steady earnings growth, and performance that beats most Wisconsin competitors outside Madison. If your student is interested in spatial analysis or cartography and values UW-La Crosse's campus environment, the financial risk appears contained. Just recognize they're unlikely to match Madison-level earnings without additional credentials or specialization.