Analysis
UW-Oshkosh's physiology and pathology program outperforms most peer programs nationally, landing in the 72nd percentile for earnings—well above the national median of $30,962. With first-year earnings of $35,727, graduates earn substantially more than typical physiology majors nationwide. Within Wisconsin's small pool of five similar programs, this ranks solidly at the 60th percentile, indicating respectable positioning in a competitive state market. The debt load of $24,682 is manageable, resulting in a 0.69 debt-to-earnings ratio that shouldn't create serious financial strain for most graduates.
The modest earnings growth—just 6% over four years—suggests graduates may be finding stable entry-level healthcare or research positions rather than rapidly advancing careers. This isn't necessarily alarming for a bachelor's-level science program, where many graduates use this degree as a stepping stone to graduate school or professional health programs. The relatively low debt compared to national averages (37th percentile) means students aren't over-borrowing, which is crucial if advanced degrees are in the future.
For families considering this program, the combination of above-average starting salaries and below-average debt makes it a financially sound choice among physiology programs. At an 87% admission rate, it's accessible to most applicants while delivering outcomes that outpace more selective options like Marquette.
Where University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all physiology, pathology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | $35,727 | $37,769 | +6% |
| Gettysburg College | $37,977 | $75,829 | +100% |
| West Virginia University | $24,463 | $63,291 | +159% |
| San Francisco State University | $36,707 | $62,221 | +70% |
| Marquette University | $31,173 | $54,837 | +76% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Physiology, Pathology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,212 | $35,727 | $37,769 | $24,682 | 0.69 | |
| $48,700 | $31,173 | $54,837 | $27,000 | 0.87 | |
| National Median | — | $30,962 | — | $23,384 | 0.76 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with physiology, pathology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Exercise Physiologists
Biological Scientists, All Other
Bioinformatics Scientists
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Geneticists
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.