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Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

Wauwatosa, WI 53226 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 50/100 | ROI Score: -60 | Affordability Score: 55/100

Tuition (In-State): $20,288 | Out-of-State: $20,288

Graduation Rate: 21.6% | Retention Rate: 42.9%

Median Earnings (10yr): $32,568 | Median Debt: $21,549

Student Body Size: 1,037 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 61.0% | Federal Loan Rate: 79.4%

Average Faculty Salary: $6,719/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa is $20,288 per year, which is 49% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $20,288/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $81,152 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $14,775/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $11,909/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $18,334/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $17,792/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $5,513/year, paying just 73% of the sticker price.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

21.6% of students at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa complete their degree, 65% below the national average. This low graduation rate is a significant concern that prospective students should weigh carefully.

First-year retention rate: 42.9% (47% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.

Graduates of Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa earn a median salary of $32,568 ten years after enrollment, 20% below the national average.

The median student debt at graduation is $21,549, near the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $234/month, with a total repayment of $28,080 (including $6,531 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.66x. This is a healthy ratio, suggesting debt is manageable for most graduates.

Financial Aid Profile

61.0% of students at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 85% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.

79.4% of students take federal loans, 69% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.

Average faculty salary: $6,719/month, 23% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa enrolls 1,037 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 71/100 (higher = more diverse). Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.

Student body composition: White 33%, Hispanic 11%, Black 41%, Asian 4%.

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa: Low Graduation Rates and Questionable ROI

Report Card: Overall Grade D

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa receives an overall grade of D based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: D
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: D
  • Affordability: A

College Analysis

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa is a Private Nonprofit institution in Wauwatosa, WI with approximately 1,037 students. Academics: Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa has a low graduation rate of 21.59%, indicating potential challenges in academic success. Value: The median debt of $21,549 and low ROI score of -60 suggest that the cost of education may not be justified by future earnings. Outcomes: Median earnings 10 years after graduation are $32,568, which is below the national average for similar institutions.

The Verdict: Is Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa Worth It?

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa presents a challenging value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $20,288 and median 10-year earnings of $32,568, the immediate return on investment appears modest. The median debt of $21,549, when compared to the median earnings, suggests a debt-to-income ratio that requires careful financial planning for repayment. The ROI score of -60 further underscores concerns about the financial return. Graduates would need approximately 7-8 years of their median earnings to pay off their median debt, assuming no other expenses. While the college offers career-focused programs and local job market access, the financial metrics indicate that this is not a clear 'good deal.' It is not overtly overpriced given the median earnings, but it is certainly not a 'hidden gem' from a purely financial standpoint. Students should carefully weigh the career services and specific program outcomes against the cost and debt incurred. A recommendation leans towards caution, advising prospective students to thoroughly research specific program job placement rates and starting salaries before committing.

Return on Investment

Given the low graduation rates and questionable ROI, the degree may not be worth the cost for many students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa: $21,549. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $245/month. Total repaid: $29,400 ($7,851 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 8.4 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $29,400.

Strengths

  • Low tuition costs
  • Focus on small class sizes
  • Diverse student body

Weaknesses

  • Low graduation rates
  • Questionable ROI
  • High median debt

Academic Profile

Retention Rate: 42.9%.

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa excels in delivering career-focused education across several key areas, with notable strengths in its Health Services, Business, and Information Technology programs. Departments like Medical Assisting, Dental Hygiene, and Information Technology are particularly robust, designed to equip students with the practical skills and certifications demanded by today's employers. While specific research opportunities for undergraduates may be limited due to the program's applied nature, faculty often bring real-world industry experience into the classroom, serving as mentors and guides. The faculty quality, while not directly reflected in salary data, is geared towards practical application and student support. Academic support is a cornerstone, with resources like tutoring services, academic advising, and career services readily available to help students navigate their coursework and prepare for job placement. The college emphasizes hands-on learning, often incorporating simulations, lab work, and case studies that mirror professional environments. Programs are typically designed for completion in shorter timeframes than traditional four-year degrees, allowing students to enter the workforce more quickly. While honors programs and extensive study abroad options are not primary features, the focus remains on delivering high-impact, career-relevant education that leads to tangible outcomes.

Financial Aid Guide for Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

Pell Grant recipients: 61.0%. Students taking federal loans: 79.4%.

Navigating financial aid at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa involves understanding the blend of federal aid, institutional support, and the potential for external scholarships. Given the tuition of $20,288 annually, most students will rely on a combination of financial aid to make their education affordable. Federal Pell Grants are a crucial resource for students demonstrating significant financial need, and while specific Pell Grant Rate data isn't available, it's a primary avenue to explore. Federal student loans are also widely utilized; the Federal Loan Rate data is not provided, but it's standard for students to take advantage of these to cover remaining costs. Bryant & Stratton likely offers its own institutional grants and scholarships, often merit-based or program-specific, though these are not detailed publicly. Work-study opportunities may be available, providing part-time employment on or near campus to help offset living expenses. For students with family incomes below $30,000, a significant portion of tuition might be covered by federal grants and loans. For those with incomes between $30,000 and $75,000, a mix of grants, loans, and potentially institutional aid will be necessary. Negotiating aid packages is generally less common at institutions like Bryant & Stratton, where aid is often determined by established federal and institutional formulas based on need and program availability. The best strategy is to complete the FAFSA early, explore all federal aid options, and actively seek external scholarships from community organizations and industry-specific foundations. Be sure to inquire directly with the financial aid office about any specific scholarships or grants unique to Bryant & Stratton-Wauwatosa.

Hidden Costs at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

  • Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the program and required resources.
  • Transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, or public transit passes, could add $500 to $2,000 annually for commuting students.
  • Personal supplies and equipment, especially for health and IT programs (e.g., scrubs, specific software, tools), might cost an additional $300 to $1,000 per year.
  • Student activity fees or technology fees, often not included in tuition, could total $200 to $500 annually.
  • Off-campus housing and meal expenses, if not living at home, can significantly increase costs, potentially adding $10,000 to $20,000 per year.
  • Parking permits for on-campus or designated off-campus lots can cost between $100 and $300 per academic year.
  • Health insurance, if not covered under a parent's plan or a student plan, could be an additional $2,000 to $4,000 annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa, a private nonprofit institution, focuses on career-oriented programs designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into the workforce. While specific data on major employers recruiting directly from Wauwatosa is limited, the college's emphasis on fields like healthcare, business, and technology suggests alumni find roles in sectors prevalent in the greater Milwaukee area. Graduates often pursue careers in healthcare support roles, administrative positions, and entry-level IT support. Industries where alumni tend to cluster include healthcare providers such as Ascension Wisconsin and Froedtert Hospital, financial services firms like Northwestern Mutual, and various small to medium-sized businesses in the region. Direct graduate school placement rates are not prominently published, indicating a primary focus on immediate employment. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for institutions of this size and focus. The career services department at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa is a critical resource, offering resume assistance, interview preparation, and job placement support. Internship pipelines are typically facilitated through partnerships with local businesses, providing students with hands-on experience. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong concentration within the Milwaukee metropolitan area and surrounding Wisconsin communities, reflecting the college's regional focus.

Campus Life & Culture at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

The student body at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa is comprised of driven individuals, often local to the greater Milwaukee area, who are seeking to advance their careers through specialized, shorter-term programs. The student population tends to be pragmatic and goal-oriented, thriving in an environment that prioritizes practical skills and immediate employability.

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa offers a focused, career-oriented campus experience within the vibrant Milwaukee metropolitan area. As a private, nonprofit institution, the student body of just over 1,000 tends to be highly engaged and driven towards specific career goals. While the campus itself is relatively compact, students benefit from the surrounding Wauwatosa community, known for its charming village atmosphere and proximity to urban amenities. Social life often revolves around academic pursuits and extracurricular activities directly tied to career development. Student organizations are typically program-specific, such as clubs for aspiring healthcare professionals, IT specialists, or business leaders, providing valuable networking and skill-building opportunities. There isn't a traditional Greek life system, nor are there extensive on-campus athletic programs in the NCAA sense; the focus is squarely on preparing students for the workforce. Housing is not provided on campus, meaning most students are local commuters or arrange off-campus living in Wauwatosa or nearby Milwaukee neighborhoods. This fosters a strong sense of community among those who do participate in campus events, often centered around career fairs, guest speaker series, and skills workshops. The 'vibe' is pragmatic and goal-oriented, attracting students who are serious about accelerating their careers through specialized education. Expect a supportive environment where faculty and staff are invested in your professional success, often with direct connections to local industries.

Campus Highlights

  • Career-focused curriculum designed for rapid workforce entry.
  • Strong ties to local industries for internships and job placement.
  • Hands-on learning environments with practical skill development.
  • Supportive faculty with real-world industry experience.
  • Convenient location in Wauwatosa, offering access to urban amenities.
  • Specialized student organizations for professional networking.
  • Emphasis on obtaining industry-recognized certifications.

Location & Regional Advantages

Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, offers a strategic location within the vibrant Milwaukee metropolitan area, providing Bryant & Stratton College students with access to a diverse job market. The local economy is robust, with significant presence in healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and technology. Proximity to major healthcare systems like Ascension Wisconsin and Froedtert Health, as well as corporate hubs for companies such as Northwestern Mutual and Harley-Davidson, creates numerous career opportunities for graduates. The cost of living in Wauwatosa and the broader Milwaukee region is generally more affordable than in larger national metropolises, making the investment in education more manageable. Quality of life is high, with a good balance of urban amenities and suburban comfort, including numerous parks, cultural attractions, and a developing downtown Milwaukee scene. While Wisconsin winters can be harsh, the region offers four distinct seasons and a strong sense of community. Safety is generally good in Wauwatosa, which is considered a desirable suburb. This location directly benefits career opportunities by placing students within a network of potential employers and offering a lower cost of living that can accelerate debt repayment and financial stability post-graduation.

How to Get Into Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

Applying to Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa is a straightforward process geared towards admitting students ready for career-focused education. Since the college does not appear to utilize Early Decision or Early Action, the application timeline is generally flexible, but applying well in advance of the desired start date is always recommended. The admissions office primarily looks for candidates who demonstrate a clear motivation for pursuing a specific career path and possess the foundational skills to succeed in their chosen program. While specific GPA or test score ranges are not published, applicants should aim for solid academic performance in high school or previous college coursework. Essays, if required, should focus on career aspirations, relevant experiences, and why Bryant & Stratton's specific programs align with those goals. Demonstrated interest is often shown through attending information sessions, engaging with admissions counselors, and completing the application promptly. Given the college's mission to provide accessible career training, the admissions process is likely less about high selectivity and more about ensuring a good fit between the student's goals and the college's offerings. Focus on highlighting your commitment to professional development and your readiness to engage in intensive, hands-on learning.

How Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC), Concordia University Wisconsin, Cardinal Stritch University

Advantages

  • Focus on career-specific training and potentially faster program completion for direct workforce entry.
  • Stronger emphasis on career services and job placement assistance tailored to local market needs.
  • Smaller class sizes and more personalized attention compared to larger public institutions.

Disadvantages

  • Higher tuition cost compared to local technical colleges like MATC and WCTC.
  • Lower graduation rates suggest potential challenges with student retention or program completion.
  • Less brand recognition and alumni network compared to established universities.

Best For

  • Students seeking high academic success and strong graduation rates
  • Prospective students prioritizing high earning potential and low debt
  • Individuals looking for a small, community-focused educational environment

Avoid If

  • Students expecting high tuition discounts or scholarships
  • Individuals seeking a high-earning career path
  • Prospective students with a strong academic background

Frequently Asked Questions about Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

How much does it cost to attend Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa?

In-state tuition at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa is $20,288 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $20,288 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $21,549.

What is the graduation rate at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa?

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa has a graduation rate of 21.6%.

How much do Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa graduates earn?

The median earnings for Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa graduates 10 years after enrollment is $32,568. With median debt of $21,549, graduates earn roughly 1.5x their debt level annually.

How big is Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa?

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa has approximately 1,037 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Wauwatosa, WI and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa worth the cost?

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa has an ROI score of -60 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $20,288 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $32,568, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa located?

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa is located in Wauwatosa, WI. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 1,037 students.

How much student debt do Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa graduates have?

The median student debt for Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa graduates is $21,549. With median earnings of $32,568 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 66%.

Is Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa a good college?

Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa has a graduation rate of 21.6% and median post-graduation earnings of $32,568. High proportion of Black students (40.69%)

How does Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa compare to similar colleges?

Low tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students Compared to peer institutions, Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa has lower graduation rates and questionable ROI, despite low tuition costs.

What career prospects do Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa graduates have?

Graduates may find limited career opportunities due to low earnings and high debt.

What should prospective students know about Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa?

The college is positioned in a niche market for students seeking affordable education with a focus on small class sizes.

What makes Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa stand out?

Small college size with 1,037 students

What are the pros and cons of attending Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa?

Low affordability score of 55

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.