Applied Mathematics at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

In Wisconsin, applied mathematics programs typically produce first-year earnings around $67,000, making the estimated $60,930 for UW-Milwaukee graduates somewhat below the state standard. That said, peer programs nationally show considerable variation in outcomes, and this estimate falls right at the national median for applied mathematics bachelor's degrees—suggesting the program delivers typical results for the field, even if Wisconsin's benchmark sits higher.

The estimated $21,000 in debt translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34, meaning graduates would owe roughly four months' salary. Similar programs across the country carry comparable debt loads, and at this ratio, loan payments should consume a reasonable portion of early-career income. Applied mathematics offers versatility—graduates move into data analysis, actuarial work, software development, and research—which can provide income growth that initial earnings don't fully capture.

The challenge here is uncertainty: with both earnings and debt estimated from peer institutions rather than UW-Milwaukee's actual outcomes, you're making a decision without seeing this specific program's track record. If your child thrives in quantitative work and wants options across industries, the math fundamentals should serve them well. But given the estimates suggest below-state performance and typical national results, dig into placement rates and where recent graduates actually land jobs before committing.