Analysis
Based on comparable mathematics programs in Wisconsin, UW-Platteville's graduates can expect around $50,000 in first-year earnings against roughly $23,000 in debtβa manageable ratio of 0.46 that suggests borrowing less than half a year's salary. While small cohort sizes mean we're working with estimates rather than program-specific outcomes, this debt load sits near the state median and aligns with national benchmarks for math degrees. The earnings figure matches what peer institutions like UW-Whitewater report, though it trails flagship UW-Madison by a significant margin.
The practical picture here is straightforward: similar Wisconsin math programs produce graduates who can typically handle their debt within reasonable timeframes, assuming steady employment. With an 87% admission rate and moderate selectivity, UW-Platteville offers an accessible path to a quantitative degree without the debt burden that would turn this investment questionable. The $23,000 borrowing level leaves room for graduate school or career pivots without being locked into the highest-paying options immediately.
For parents evaluating this program, the key question is whether the estimated outcomes justify choosing UW-Platteville over alternatives. If your student has admission to Madison, the $17,000 earnings premium there could compound significantly over a career. But if this represents the most affordable option for a solid math credential, peer program data suggests it delivers reasonable value without financial overreach.
Where University of Wisconsin-Platteville Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (30 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,315 | $50,285* | β | $23,321* | β | |
| $11,205 | $67,744* | $83,357 | $20,500* | 0.30 | |
| $10,020 | $56,284* | $71,400 | $27,000* | 0.48 | |
| $44,432 | $52,644* | β | $27,000* | 0.51 | |
| $36,500 | $52,593* | $60,583 | $27,000* | 0.51 | |
| $8,250 | $50,285* | $53,677 | $22,248* | 0.44 | |
| National Median | β | $48,772* | β | $21,500* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mathematics graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
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-Platteville, approximately 21% 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 median of 9 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.