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Geography and Cartography at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

La Crosse, WI · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $37,537/yr (-2% vs median)

AI Risk High (49% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (115,700 openings/yr)

ROI 13.2x earnings multiple (6.8x out-of-state)

Ranked #58 of 95 Geography and Cartography programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Geography and Cartography graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$510K	$508K	$476K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	13.2x	13.2x	12.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	6.8x	6.8x	6.4x
Probability of Field Employment	57%	50%	37%
DegreeOutlook Score	46	46	46

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$38,604

Out-of-state: $74,764 (6.8x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$61,496

-59% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$20,359

6.5 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$49,518

32% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $37,537/yr, Geography and Cartography graduates from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse land near the $38,355 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 13.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 7% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Geography and Cartography career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $20,359 against $37,537/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #58 ranking among 95 Geography and Cartography programs places University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 32% earnings increase from $37,537 to $49,518 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

With 73% of applicants admitted, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse prioritizes broad access, serving 9,194 students in La Crosse, WI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr

Geographers $97,200/yr

Geography teachers, postsecondary $86,730/yr

View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Geography and Cartography at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 46/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Geography and Cartography at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse?

At 46/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Geography and Cartography programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study Geography and Cartography at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse?

The 49% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →