Social Work at University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

UW-Oshkosh's social work graduates earn notably more than the national median—$43,948 versus $37,296—placing this program in the 95th percentile nationally. That's impressive performance for a degree field where earnings typically lag behind other majors. The debt load of $26,750 is reasonable at just 0.61 times first-year earnings, meaning graduates should be able to manage payments while pursuing mission-driven careers that often don't prioritize compensation.

Within Wisconsin, however, the picture shifts. This program sits in the middle of the pack (60th percentile), trailing schools like Viterbo and UW-River Falls by $2,400-$2,900. But here's what matters: the difference between mid-tier and top-tier Wisconsin programs is relatively small, while the gap between UW-Oshkosh and the national median is substantial. If your child is committed to social work and plans to practice in Wisconsin, they'll enter the field on solid financial footing compared to peers nationwide.

The 8% earnings growth from year one to year four is modest but typical for social work, where early-career salaries tend to be stable rather than steeply progressive. Given the reasonable debt and strong national standing, this program offers a financially sensible path into a field where graduates need to balance passion with practicality.