Compare 5 Genetics. programs in the Midwest. Average earnings: $48,432.
Genetics programs produce graduates earning between $39,052 and $54,177—a $15K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 5 ranked programs in the Midwest, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
University of Wisconsin-Madison's Genetics program leads with graduates earning $54,177, well above the regional average of $48,432. Michigan State University follows at $50,229, proving that accessible programs (84% acceptance rate) can deliver strong outcomes that compete with more selective institutions.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Wisconsin graduates borrow $20,484 and face just an 8.9% payment burden, landing in the 'Good' category. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, graduates can clear their student loans with about 5 months of salary while keeping payments manageable.
Highest program earnings: $54,177
Strong outcomes ($50,229) with 84% acceptance
8.9% payment burden | Good
23.0% family burden | Challenging
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $54,177 | 84 | $20,484 | Good | $28,364 | Challenging | |
| #2 | $50,229 | 62 | $23,250 | Good | $37,401 | High | |
| #3 | Iowa State UniversityPublic | $49,980 | 43 | $22,869 | Good | $25,950 | High |
| #4 | $48,720 | 55 | $19,976 | Good | $25,868 | High | |
| #5 | $39,052 | 27 | $19,500 | Manageable | $29,448 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
