University of Wisconsin-Madison

What are the graduation rates for students at University of Wisconsin-Madison?

The University of Wisconsin-Madison demonstrates exceptionally strong graduation outcomes, with an overall graduation rate of 89%, placing it in the top 5% nationally. These figures reflect a consistent pattern of achievement across genders, as men graduate at a rate of 88% and women at 91%, both also rated very high and within the top 5% percentile range.

Looking at more specific time frames, the university boasts a very high four-year graduation rate of 73%, situating it in the top 10% of institutions. This suggests that a substantial majority of students complete their bachelor's degrees within the traditional timeframe. The six-year graduation rate remains firmly at 89%, confirming sustained success in degree completion over longer periods and again ranking among the top 5% of colleges nationwide.

Retention rates further illustrate the university's capacity to support student progress, with 95% of first-year students continuing their studies into the subsequent year. This figure is notably high and ranks within the top 10%, indicative of a supportive academic environment and effective student engagement.

What is the earning potential for graduates at University of Wisconsin-Madison?

Graduates from the University of Wisconsin-Madison exhibit a wide range of earning potentials depending on their chosen field of study. Those who pursued degrees in engineering and computer sciences generally report some of the highest average earnings. For instance, computer engineering graduates earn around $78,839, while those with degrees in computer and information sciences see average salaries near $72,878. Similarly, industrial engineering alumni earn about $74,061, and chemical engineering graduates make approximately $72,510.

Traditional engineering disciplines remain lucrative, with civil engineering at $66,167, electrical and electronics engineering at $70,596, and mechanical engineering around $70,199. Biomedical and agricultural engineering also provide solid returns, with earnings close to $63,620 and $61,703, respectively. Materials engineering graduates earn an average of $64,892, highlighting the strong standing of engineering programs in terms of financial outcomes.

Outside of engineering, graduates in fields such as mathematics and business also demonstrate healthy earning potential. Mathematics majors can expect about $51,817 on average, while those with degrees in business administration, management and operations earn approximately $53,294. Specialized business fields such as marketing and finance show robust figures as well, with marketing graduates earning around $53,817 and finance majors near $61,474.

Students in accounting and insurance fare well too, with earnings of $61,605 and $65,571 respectively. Other notable majors with solid financial prospects include registered nursing at $65,921 and real estate at $69,730. Among the sciences, food science and technology graduates earn roughly $50,564, reflecting good compensation in applied scientific disciplines.

Degrees in communication and media studies report moderate earnings around $36,006, with journalism graduates earning somewhat higher at $42,011. Special education and teaching professions display average salaries in the low $40,000s. Social sciences and humanities fields exhibit more modest returns, typically ranging from the low $20,000s to mid $30,000s, including degrees like anthropology ($31,599), religious studies, and ethnic and cultural studies.

Overall, those selecting majors in STEM and business-related areas at the University of Wisconsin-Madison stand to achieve the highest early-career incomes, while students pursuing liberal arts and education-related fields generally encounter more modest earnings after graduation.