Analysis
Viterbo's social work graduates earn $46,384 their first year—well above the Wisconsin median of $42,034 and exceptional nationally (95th percentile). However, within Wisconsin, this program sits at the 60th percentile, meaning several UW system schools produce similar or slightly lower outcomes despite likely costing less for in-state students. The $31,000 debt load is manageable relative to starting pay, but it's higher than most Wisconsin programs where the median is $26,449.
The earnings trajectory shows modest 7% growth over four years, which is typical for social work where advancement often requires graduate credentials. What's notable is that first-year earnings already position graduates competitively—they're starting ahead of peers at many larger public institutions. Social work rarely generates outsized financial returns regardless of where you study, so starting strong matters.
The critical caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, making it less reliable than programs with larger samples. Still, if your child is drawn to Viterbo's mission-driven environment and Catholic social teaching emphasis, the financial picture isn't a dealbreaker. Just know that similar outcomes may be achievable at lower cost through the UW system, particularly at River Falls or Green Bay, which could preserve resources for the MSW many social workers eventually pursue.
Where Viterbo University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Viterbo University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viterbo University | $46,384 | $49,400 | +7% |
| University of Wisconsin-River Falls | $45,870 | $50,045 | +9% |
| Marquette University | $37,494 | $49,043 | +31% |
| University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | $43,948 | $47,420 | +8% |
| University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire | $40,562 | $46,425 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Social Work bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Viterbo UniversityLa Crosse | $32,350 | $46,384 | $49,400 | $31,000 | 0.67 |
 University of Wisconsin-River FallsRiver Falls | $8,606 | $45,870 | $50,045 | $26,303 | 0.57 |
 University of Wisconsin-Green BayGreen Bay | $8,342 | $44,135 | $43,930 | $25,237 | 0.57 |
 University of Wisconsin-OshkoshOshkosh | $8,212 | $43,948 | $47,420 | $26,750 | 0.61 |
 University of Wisconsin-SuperiorSuperior | $8,487 | $42,487 | $43,399 | $29,166 | 0.69 |
 University of Wisconsin-Stevens PointStevens Point | $8,834 | $41,582 | $45,626 | $26,500 | 0.64 |
| National Median | — | $37,296 | — | $26,362 | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social work graduates
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Marriage and Family Therapists
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Healthcare Social Workers
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Social Workers, All Other
Counselors, 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 Viterbo University, approximately 22% 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.