Median Earnings (1yr)
$35,727
72nd percentile
Median Debt
$24,682
6% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.69
Manageable
Sample Size
49
Adequate data

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

University of Wisconsin-OshkoshOther physiology, pathology programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 72th percentile of all physiology, pathology bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin

Physiology, Pathology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (5 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh$35,727$37,769$24,6820.69
Marquette University$31,173$54,837$27,0000.87
National Median$30,962—$23,3840.76

Other Physiology, Pathology Programs in Wisconsin

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Wisconsin schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Marquette University
Milwaukee
$48,700$31,173$27,000

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.