Social Work at Viterbo University

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.