Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's nursing program produces graduates who earn nearly $71,000 in their first year—solid money that reflects nursing's strong job market. However, this program underperforms both state and national benchmarks, with graduates earning about $1,500 less than the Wisconsin median and nearly $4,000 below the national average. Among Wisconsin's 28 nursing programs, UW-Milwaukee ranks in the 40th percentile, falling behind several other state options including UW-Madison and multiple Herzing University campuses.

The debt burden of $27,000 matches both state and national medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38. What's concerning is the virtual lack of earnings growth—graduates see only a 1% increase over four years, suggesting early career stagnation rather than the typical nursing career progression. With nursing being a field known for advancement opportunities, this flat trajectory raises questions about the program's preparation for career growth.

For parents weighing options, UW-Milwaukee's nursing program offers acceptable entry-level outcomes but leaves money on the table compared to other Wisconsin schools. The $27,000 debt load is reasonable, but when other state programs deliver $4,000-5,000 more in annual earnings for similar debt, those alternatives merit serious consideration. This program gets you to a nursing career, but not necessarily the strongest start possible in Wisconsin.