University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee vs Milwaukee School of Engineering: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Milwaukee School of Engineering has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $89,812 in 2.2 years versus 9.1 years at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, on median earnings of $89,070 vs $54,990 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee School of Engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,014 | $22,453 |
| Total net cost | $60,056 | $89,812 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $54,990 | $89,070 |
| Median debt | $23,000 | $27,000 |
| Payback | 9.1 yrs | 2.2 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $72,544 | $724,388 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee vs Milwaukee School of Engineering: frequently asked questions
Is University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee or Milwaukee School of Engineering a better value?
Milwaukee School of Engineering. It clears its $89,812 net cost in about 2.2 years versus 9.1 years at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, on median earnings of $89,070 vs $54,990 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee or Milwaukee School of Engineering?
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee: $15,014/yr net price after aid versus $22,453/yr at Milwaukee School of Engineering — a difference of $7,439 a year, or about $29,756 over four years.
Do University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee or Milwaukee School of Engineering graduates earn more?
Milwaukee School of Engineering graduates earn a median $89,070 ten years after entry, versus $54,990 at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee — a $34,080 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.