Analysis
Based on comparable economics programs in Wisconsin, graduates here likely face a manageable financial starting point: an estimated $23,349 in debt against first-year earnings around $51,344. That 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio means roughly five months of gross income to cover what students borrow—a reasonable burden that shouldn't require years of aggressive repayment. Wisconsin's economics programs cluster tightly in earnings outcomes, with UW-Superior's estimated figures landing right at the state median and close to the national benchmark of $51,722.
What matters more than these middle-of-the-pack projections is understanding their limitations. With a 94% admission rate and lower test scores than many peer institutions, UW-Superior serves a different student population than Madison or other flagship programs. The estimated figures come from Wisconsin's broader economics landscape, but actual outcomes here could diverge based on the specific curriculum, regional employer connections in the Superior area, and student preparedness. The smaller program size that triggers data suppression might mean fewer established recruiting pipelines or alumni networks compared to larger state schools.
For families weighing this option, the estimated debt load won't sink your child's financial future if the earnings projections hold. But given the uncertainty around program-specific outcomes, you'll want to dig into job placement rates, internship opportunities, and where recent graduates actually land—information the school itself should provide. If your child is considering graduate school in economics or related fields, this affordable foundation makes more sense than if they're banking on the bachelor's degree alone to launch a lucrative career.
Where University of Wisconsin-Superior Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,487 | $51,344* | — | $23,349* | — | |
| $8,212 | $57,663* | — | $25,000* | 0.43 | |
| $11,205 | $54,495* | $69,594 | $20,750* | 0.38 | |
| $9,651 | $53,595* | $57,423 | $25,000* | 0.47 | |
| $44,432 | $53,350* | $66,245 | $27,000* | 0.51 | |
| $9,277 | $51,344* | $58,841 | $21,500* | 0.42 | |
| National Median | — | $51,722* | — | $22,816* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
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-Superior, approximately 30% 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.