University of Wisconsin-Parkside vs Carthage College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Carthage College has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $106,260 in 12.4 years versus 17 years at University of Wisconsin-Parkside, on median earnings of $56,950 vs $51,129 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Wisconsin-Parkside | Carthage College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $11,772 | $26,565 |
| Total net cost | $47,088 | $106,260 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $51,129 | $56,950 |
| Median debt | $20,492 | $26,000 |
| Payback | 17 yrs | 12.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $8,292 | $65,540 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Wisconsin-Parkside vs Carthage College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Wisconsin-Parkside or Carthage College a better value?
Carthage College. It clears its $106,260 net cost in about 12.4 years versus 17 years at University of Wisconsin-Parkside, on median earnings of $56,950 vs $51,129 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Wisconsin-Parkside or Carthage College?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside: $11,772/yr net price after aid versus $26,565/yr at Carthage College — a difference of $14,793 a year, or about $59,172 over four years.
Do University of Wisconsin-Parkside or Carthage College graduates earn more?
Carthage College graduates earn a median $56,950 ten years after entry, versus $51,129 at University of Wisconsin-Parkside — a $5,821 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.