English Language and Literature at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

UW-Milwaukee's English program graduates earn significantly less than peers at other Wisconsin public universities—sitting in just the 25th percentile statewide. While first-year earnings of $28,690 trail the state median by nearly $6,000, graduates at UW-Green Bay, Eau Claire, and La Crosse all start above $37,000. This gap matters because Wisconsin families often choose between UW System schools with similar tuition costs, and this program underperforms most alternatives.

The positive news is strong earnings growth: the 29% increase from year one to year four suggests graduates find their footing professionally. Debt levels are reasonable at $26,291—actually below the national median for English programs—and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.92 means first-year obligations are manageable compared to entry salaries. By year four, when earnings reach $36,878, graduates are closer to the state norm.

For families weighing UW-Milwaukee against other Wisconsin options, understand that this program starts behind and catches up gradually. If Milwaukee's urban location or specific faculty are compelling reasons to attend, the modest debt burden and improving trajectory make it workable. But if your student simply wants the strongest English degree within the UW System, several campuses deliver meaningfully better early-career outcomes at similar cost.