Economics at University of Wisconsin-Madison

UW-Madison's economics program delivers solid middle-of-the-pack performance that becomes more impressive over time. While first-year earnings of $54,495 place graduates at the 60th percentile both nationally and within Wisconsin, the real strength emerges in the substantial 28% earnings growth by year four, reaching $69,594. This trajectory suggests the program effectively prepares students for career advancement, even if it doesn't immediately place them at the top of the earnings ladder.

The financial picture is reasonable but not exceptional. At $20,750, median debt sits below both national and state averages for economics programs, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38. However, it's worth noting that other Wisconsin programs like UW-Oshkosh show stronger first-year outcomes at $57,663, raising questions about whether Madison's prestige translates to immediate earning power in this field.

For parents, this represents a steady, low-risk investment rather than a standout opportunity. The combination of below-average debt and consistent earnings growth suggests graduates won't struggle financially, but they also won't dramatically outpace peers from less prestigious schools. If your child is passionate about economics and values the broader UW-Madison experience, the numbers support that choice—just don't expect the brand name alone to deliver outsized economic returns in this particular major.