University of Wisconsin-La Crosse vs Western Technical College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $64,840 in 5.4 years versus not at all at Western Technical College, on median earnings of $60,378 vs $45,303 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Western Technical College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $16,210 | $11,008 |
| Total net cost | $64,840 | $44,032 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $60,378 | $45,303 |
| Median debt | $22,500 | $11,500 |
| Payback | 5.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $175,520 | -$105,172 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse vs Western Technical College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Wisconsin-La Crosse or Western Technical College a better value?
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. It clears its $64,840 net cost in about 5.4 years versus no clear payback at Western Technical College, on median earnings of $60,378 vs $45,303 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse or Western Technical College?
Western Technical College: $11,008/yr net price after aid versus $16,210/yr at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse — a difference of $5,202 a year, or about $20,808 over four years.
Do University of Wisconsin-La Crosse or Western Technical College graduates earn more?
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse graduates earn a median $60,378 ten years after entry, versus $45,303 at Western Technical College — a $15,075 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.