Engineering Physics at University of Wisconsin-Platteville

UW-Platteville's Engineering Physics program produces graduates earning nearly $20,000 more than the national median for this degree, placing it in the 89th percentile nationally. With first-year earnings of $68,379 against just $27,000 in debt, the math works strongly in students' favor—that 0.39 debt ratio means graduates owe less than five months' salary. The relatively low debt is particularly noteworthy given that this figure sits in the 25th percentile nationally, meaning three-quarters of similar programs leave students with heavier loan burdens.

The caveat here is sample size: fewer than 30 graduates were tracked, so these outcomes could shift with more data. Still, the combination of strong starting salaries, manageable debt at an 87% admission rate institution, and 11% earnings growth by year four suggests the program delivers real value. Wisconsin offers only four Engineering Physics programs, making direct state comparisons limited, but this program matches the state median while significantly outperforming the national field.

For families weighing cost against outcomes, this program offers what anxious parents typically want: graduates who can comfortably manage their debt while earning well above the national benchmark. The small sample means you're taking some statistical risk, but the underlying fundamentals—low debt, high earnings, steady growth—point toward a solid return on investment.