Analysis
A debt load of $27,925 against first-year earnings around $36,630 creates a manageable ratio of 0.76—below the 1.0 threshold that typically signals repayment strain. But here's the catch: both figures are national estimates, not actual outcomes from UW-Oshkosh graduates in this program. Peer Human Services bachelor's programs across the country suggest this earnings level, while debt estimates come from similar UW-Oshkosh programs. The true picture for this specific degree could differ.
What we can say with confidence is that Wisconsin's Human Services field shows considerable variation. Reported outcomes from other Wisconsin schools range from $35,168 to $40,125, with the state median at $37,646—slightly above national norms. UW-Oshkosh's estimated debt figure is notably lower than Wisconsin's $43,044 median, which could reflect the institution's public university structure and lower tuition. If these estimates hold true, that's a meaningful advantage over more expensive in-state alternatives.
The practical takeaway: this appears to be a reasonably affordable path into helping professions, but you're making this assessment without school-specific data. Before committing, push the financial aid office for concrete placement and earnings information from recent graduates, particularly those who stayed in Wisconsin. Human Services careers often require graduate credentials for advancement, so factor in whether your child might need additional degrees down the line.
Where University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Human Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (8 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,212 | $36,630* | — | $27,925* | — | |
| $11,982 | $40,125* | — | $46,312* | 1.15 | |
| — | $35,168* | — | $39,775* | 1.13 | |
| National Median | — | $36,630* | — | $31,573* | 0.86 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with human services graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, approximately 16% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 84 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.