Best Colleges in Wisconsin

Wisconsin College Guide – What You Need to Know

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Currently, 25% of Wisconsin residents have earned a college degree. In an effort to increase that number, the University of Wisconsin launched its eCampus program which provides degree programs completely online. An arm of the program is the Flex Option. This facet of the program provides assessment testing for adults to test out of training in skills they have already been proven to master.

Working adults, many with children, need the luxury of a flexible learning environment. The best Wisconsin online programs offer career counseling and an online library. At the top of the list of top-rated online Bachelor’s degree programs are Maranatha Baptist University and the University of Wisconsin (UW).

The most highly rated UW eCampus locations are:

  • Stout
  • Green Bay
  • La Crosse
  • Stevens Point
  • Whitewater
wisconsin_map_university

What are the most popular bachelor's degrees offered in Wisconsin?

The most common fields of study chosen in Wisconsin colleges are:

How Much Can You Make by Having a Degree in Wisconsin

It’s difficult to measure the value of an education. Although many have found success without a college degree, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) consistently reports that degrees increase lifetime earnings. BLS data shows that a bachelor’s degree can increase average weekly earnings from $907 to $1,173, a 29% average increase.

Furthermore, BLS tracking shows that a Bachelor’s degree drops the average individual’s unemployment rate from 3.6 to 2.7%.

Education Level & National Average Median Compensation

NO FORMAL EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA ASSOCIATE DEGREE BACHELOR’S DEGREE MASTER’S DEGREE DOCTORAL DEGREE
$30,784* $38,792* $46,124* $64,896* $77,844* $96,772*
*National Average Earnings by Degree Level
arizona-National-Average-earning-by-educational-attainment

The most popular online Bachelor's degrees offered in Wisconsin

According to University of Wisconsin statistics, business-related fields top the list of popular college majors. Specialty areas of a business degree include marketing, accounting, and project management. With the growing need for quality in the field of education, teaching is another common choice. Other sought-after online degree programs among Wisconsin students include various disciplines of science, technology, communications, and engineering. The healthcare industry is also booming in Wisconsin and nationwide.

Top Business Careers and Salaries

Occupations requiring a Bachelor’s degree in Business are projected to grow very quickly over the next decade. The growth of the global economy, complex regulations, and constant revision of tax laws are expected to continue the strong demand for educated business professionals. The increased use of data and market research practices is also creating a demand for research analysts.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE
Business analyst 11,120 $67,800 (N/A for 2021)
Financial analyst 4,190 $81,000
Marketing manager 2,720 $125,870
  • Business Analysts:
    are responsible for helping management find the optimal way of doing things. They suggest improvements and point out flaws in processes so that the company can constantly improve.
  • Financial Analysts:
    keep an eye on a business’ budget and their bookkeeping. They may suggest investments or create reports for the CEO to suggest budgetary changes, whether that means lowering the number of staff or setting aside more of the budget for staff or hardware.
  • Marketing managers:
    are in charge of the marketing department. They’ll work with designers and other marketing experts to create campaigns for their company or, if they work with a consulting marketing company, other businesses in order to maximize market impact.

Best Wisconsin Schools for Business:

  • University of Wisconsin - Madison
  • Marquette University
  • University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
  • Carthage College

Top Communication Careers and Salaries

A Communications degree is very flexible, providing a broad range of career opportunities. These include public relations, broadcasting, marketing, social media management, and even more.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE
Public Relations 3,950 $63,800
Marketing Coordinator 12,660 $57,710
Human Resources 2,000 $40,950
  • Public Relations:
    professionals know how to present the best face possible for their company. They can get the news out about the great work they’re doing or help bring the company back into the good graces of the public after a slip up.
  • Marketing Coordinators:
    oversee all marketing campaigns for a company, either as a full-time employee or on a consulting basis. They will bring together the right designers and advertising options for new or existing products and make sure everything goes off without a hitch.
  • Human Resources:
    specialists and manager are in charge of hiring, training, development, and firing of employees. They may also recruit for specialized positions so that their company has the best talent available.

Best Wisconsin Schools for Communication

  • University of Wisconsin - Madison
  • Marquette University
  • University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
  • Carthage College

Top Computer Sciences Careers and Salaries

A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Computer technology affects every industry in our economy, as well as our daily lives. Graduates have choices in a variety of rewarding jobs.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE
Software Developers 16,940 $87,700
Systems Analyst 13,640 $84,340
Information Security Analyst 1,590 $82,950
  • Software Developers:
    have the option to work with systems or applications. With applications you may create a mobile user interface for a company server. If you choose systems, you might control the company network or develop the in-house program to work specifically to your business’ needs.
  • Systems Analysts:
    are vital in both the creation and management of systems. They’ll make decisions on how the system is set up and keep their eyes open for problems or inefficiencies. The goal is to make the system as efficient as possible while also increasing its usefulness or ease of use for employees or clients.
  • Information Security Analysts:
    may also work with systems, but they do so in a security capacity. They’ll look for openings to outside actors and make sure the firewalls cannot be penetrated. They may also be in charge of granting permissions to users and setting up security protocols for when the company system must interact with outside systems.

Best Wisconsin Schools for Computer Science

  • University of Wisconsin - Madison
  • Marquette University
  • Concordia University
  • Milwaukee School of Engineering

Top Education Careers and Salaries

A Bachelor’s degree in Education will open the door to work in both public and private school systems. An Education degree can be general or specialized. Bachelor’s degree holders can become teachers, coaches, and even principals.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE
Preschool Teachers 10,180 $26,550
Elementary Teachers 28,240 $57,980
Special Education, Kindergarten/Elementary 1,980 $56,820
  • Preschool Teachers:
    are responsible for the youngest school children. They help them form their lifelong views of education and learning. This is a sector that is poised for ongoing growth, as more and more data supports the importance of preschool for young children.
  • Elementary School Teachers:
    are responsible for transitioning children from the one-classroom learning approach to learning sessions that focus in on specific subjects. It’s at this point that teachers need to have a focus on a specific subject like math or English in order to teach.
  • Special Education Teachers:
    have the responsibility for teaching any student with disabilities or learning difficulties. They create learning plans for each individual student and work closely with parents as they assist their children with achieving as much as they can in their education.

Best Wisconsin Schools for Education

  • University of Wisconsin
  • St. Norbert College
  • Concordia University
  • Maranatha Baptist University

Top Healthcare Careers and Salaries

The Healthcare industry may be the fastest growing field in the country. Healthcare careers also offer a variety of job opportunities. The population is growing, people are living longer, and the need for qualified, degreed candidates is a constant.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE
Pharmacist 5,490 $134,090
Physical Therapist 5,590 $88,570
Registered Nurse 61,930 $72,610
  • Pharmacists:
    are professionals with a lot of responsibility of their plate. While pharmacy technicians can explain medications to patients and take insurance and personal information, pharmacists are responsible for putting together medications in response to prescriptions.
  • Physical Therapists:
    help their patients to get moving again. After an accident or stroke affects their ability to walk to move correctly, it’s a physical therapist’s job to get them as close to ‘normal’ as they possibly can.
  • Registered Nurses:
    have the most interaction with patients. They are the front line in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Best Wisconsin Schools for Healthcare

  • University of Wisconsin – Madison
  • Marquette University
  • University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
  • Viterbo University
Want to See All the Wisconsin Occupational Wage Averages

The top occupations with the highest forecasted growth rate in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s economy has grown steadily since the last recession. The labor market has attained the most apparent growth. Unemployment has fallen to an all-time low. In recent years Wisconsin has focused on policies that would increase its labor force. Wisconsin business has diversified, but manufacturing remains a large part of the economy and has grown substantially in the past decade.

To keep up with the business world, researchers use current trends to predict which positions will not only survive but thrive into the next decades. Many jobs will change and new positions will arise, but they can give us a good insight into what the workforce will look like. Analysts have compiled data to determine which careers will grow the fastest over the next 10 years.

The highest forecasted growth rate for top occupations in Wisconsin

Occupation percentage growth rate
Computer and Mathematical 14.3%
Management 10.9%
Business and Financial 10.4%
Architectural and Engineering 11.9%
Community and Social Service 11.9%
Life, Physical, and Social Science 11.2%
Healthcare 10.65%

Best Associate Degrees in Wisconsin

Best Associate Degrees in Wisconsin
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Are you interested in earning a degree fast so that you can begin applying for entry-level positions as soon as possible? Or maybe you want to get some of your general education requirements out of the way to make a bachelor’s degree program more affordable? Whatever your circumstances, consider enrolling in one of Wisconsin’s two-year associate degree programs. You can quickly gain the knowledge and skills necessary to enter the workforce and/or pursue more advanced degrees in the future.

Milwaukee Career College
College Type
2-year, Private for-profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
189		 Graduation Rate
71%		 Net Price
$21,509
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,640		 Graduation Rate
62%		 Net Price
$9,629
Moraine Park Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
4,061		 Graduation Rate
57%		 Net Price
$8,489
Fox Valley Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
12,239		 Graduation Rate
55%		 Net Price
$10,417
Western Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
4,165		 Graduation Rate
48%		 Net Price
$9,122
Lakeshore Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
2,660		 Graduation Rate
46%		 Net Price
$9,864
Nicolet Area Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
1,258		 Graduation Rate
46%		 Net Price
$7,002
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
2,966		 Graduation Rate
46%		 Net Price
$10,723
Chippewa Valley Technical College
College Type
2-year, public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
7,924		 Graduation Rate
45%		 Net Price
$9,802
Waukesha County Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
7,467		 Graduation Rate
44%		 Net Price
$9,892
Full Ranking Report

Best Bachelor's Degrees in Wisconsin

Best Bachelor's Degrees in Wisconsin
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The state of Wisconsin offers some excellent options for four-year bachelor’s degrees. Whatever your field of interest, you will be able to find a program that consists of a curriculum that is accredited and approved. Enrolling in one of the state’s bachelor’s programs will also help you gain the professional attention you need to be successful in the future. Whether you intend to apply for employment immediately or you plan to pursue an advanced degree after graduation, earning an undergraduate degree is the perfect way to prepare.

University of Wisconsin-Madison
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
44,257		 Graduation Rate
88%		 Net Price
$16,103
Bellin College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
649		 Graduation Rate
86%		 Net Price
$27,673
Marquette University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
11,819		 Graduation Rate
82%		 Net Price
$34,120
Lawrence University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,442		 Graduation Rate
79%		 Net Price
$26,162
Beloit College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,143		 Graduation Rate
75%		 Net Price
$24,493
Saint Norbert College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,081		 Graduation Rate
73%		 Net Price
$26,540
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
10,623		 Graduation Rate
69%		 Net Price
$12,167
Carroll University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,449		 Graduation Rate
67%		 Net Price
$23,866
Ripon College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
787		 Graduation Rate
67%		 Net Price
$22,830
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
11,255		 Graduation Rate
67%		 Net Price
$14,010
Full Ranking Report

Best Master's Degrees in Wisconsin

Best Master's Degrees in Wisconsin
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Here, you can find some of the best advanced degrees available in Wisconsin. Students seeking advanced knowledge and training in a wide variety of fields, from business and law to medicine and engineering, will have no problem identifying the perfect master’s or doctoral programs for them in the state. These programs are ideal for individuals most interested in research and education, as graduates often find work as researchers and educators within their chosen fields. Some benefits of earning advanced degrees include making more money, receiving more frequent promotions, and experiencing more job security.

University of Wisconsin-Madison
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
11,858		 Graduation Rate
88%		 Net Price
$16,103
Bellin College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
133		 Graduation Rate
86%		 Net Price
$27,673
Marquette University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,304		 Graduation Rate
82%		 Net Price
$34,120
Saint Norbert College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
81		 Graduation Rate
73%		 Net Price
$26,540
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
955		 Graduation Rate
69%		 Net Price
$12,167
Carroll University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
489		 Graduation Rate
67%		 Net Price
$23,866
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
664		 Graduation Rate
67%		 Net Price
$14,010
Carthage College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
104		 Graduation Rate
66%		 Net Price
$28,165
Milwaukee School of Engineering
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
180		 Graduation Rate
65%		 Net Price
$25,917
Mount Mary University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
587		 Graduation Rate
65%		 Net Price
$20,156
Full Ranking Report
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Best Online Degree Colleges in Wisconsin (Distance Learning Only)

Would you like to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, but don’t have the time or finances necessary to attend traditional day classes on campus? Fortunately, Wisconsin offers a number of fantastic distancing learning options. You can choose from some of the best online colleges in the state and flexible scheduling will allow you to complete requirements at your own pace. Depending on the program level you choose, you can begin applying for new professional positions or more advanced degrees after graduation.

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Flex
College Type
4-year, Public		 Student Population
602		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
NA
University of Wisconsin-Parkside Flex
College Type
4-year, Primarily associate's, Public		 Student Population
70		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
NA
Colorado Technical University
College Type
4-year, Private for-profit		 Student Population
27,232		 Graduation Rate
26%		 Net Price
$16,260
Purdue
College Type
4-year, Public		 Student Population
38,138		 Graduation Rate
27%		 Net Price
NA
Southern New Hampshire University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Student Population
113,514		 Graduation Rate
44%		 Net Price
$39,743
Western Governors University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Student Population
136,139		 Graduation Rate
21%		 Net Price
$7,785
Capella University
College Type
4-year, Private for-profit		 Student Population
37,859		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
$17,368
Walden University
College Type
4-year, Private for-profit		 Student Population
48,420		 Graduation Rate
33%		 Net Price
NA

Cost of Wisconsin College Education & Salaries

College Cost Analysis - Wisconsin vs National

Average Wisconsin Tuition and Fees at Four-Year Institution

The University of Wisconsin Board of Regents sets tuition prices and fee schedules. Fee recommendations are submitted by individual student bodies for Chancellor review, followed by approval by the Board of Regents. Tuition and fees are due at time of registration or students may be able to enter a credit agreement. UW Online Colleges, as with on-campus students, are considered full-time when registered between 12 and 18 credits. New students are also subject to non-refundable placement test fees as well as other new student fees.

Wisconsin Out-of-state - $24,354

Wisconsin Out-of-state – $21,327

Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid

Financial aid programs have made it possible for multitudes of undergraduate students to attend secondary institutions. Grants and loans are available for those proving financial need. The largest grant program is the Pell Grant. Federal loan programs are also available.

Federal grants were received by 46% of Wisconsin’s undergraduate students. That accounts for 80,894 Pell grants. Grants and loans combined accounted for 69% of the federal financial aid awarded in the University of Wisconsin (UW) system.

The State of Wisconsin also provides financial aid for students in the UW education system. Wisconsin state sources accounted for 8% of student aid in 2017. Institutions in the UW System provided 10% while 12% was acquired from private and other community sources.

On a national level, 85% of full-time students seeking a Bachelor’s degree attained financial aid. Public institution students received 83% while private nonprofit and for-profit schools received 89% and 87%, respectively. The number of students receiving financial aid has grown dramatically since 2001 and seems to be rising steadily.

Financial Aid Wisconsin Nationally
Received Federal Grants 37% 37.7%
Average $ per Recipient $9,490 $10,927

Best Scholarships for Wisconsin

Money is often a deciding factor for college-bound individuals. Postsecondary tuitions climb annually, increasing the financial pressure. Along with financial aid, national and state scholarships are available. Many public and private institutions in Wisconsin offer a variety of scholarship opportunities. Requirements are based on academic history, the field of study, family background, financial need, and other factors.

The following is a list of some of the best opportunities for college scholarships in Wisconsin.

KFC_logo

HS

The Kohler Foundation Scholarships

http://www.kohlerfoundation.org/scholarships/
Amounts: Up to $100,000 over 4 years
Deadline: March 1
The Kohler Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit, philanthropic organization that focuses on art preservation and supporting the performing arts in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin and beyond. The foundation awards two scholarships annually with a maximum award of $100,000 distributed over four years. The two scholarships are the Herbert V. Kohler Scholarship, awarded to a student based on outstanding leadership abilities and the Ruth DeYoung Kohler Scholarship for artistic ability. Eligible students must be county residents but are not required to attend a Wisconsin institution.

WRA_logo

WSA

The WRA Education Foundation Scholarship

https://www.wirestaurant.org/education-foundation/scholarships
Amounts: $1,000 to $2,250 (35 Awards)
Deadline: April 1
The Wisconsin Restaurant Association (WRA) awards the WRA Education Foundation Scholarship. This scholarship is geared toward the hospitality industry and is awarded to students enrolled in a Wisconsin culinary or hospitality programs. Applicants must be enrolled, with a minimum of six credit hours, in a program focused on the restaurant and hospitality industries. Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, Food Science, and others are acceptable, with a goal of entering the hospitality industry. Each year 35 scholarships are awarded to Wisconsin residents. Applications must include official high school transcripts and a letter of recommendation. It is preferred that the recommendation is written by a hospitality or food service professional or instructor.

GLHF

The Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundations

http://www.glhf.org/what-we-do/scholarships
Amounts: $250-$3,000
Deadline: March 15
The Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation’s (GLHF) mission is to improve the quality of the lives of those diagnosed with bleeding disorders. GLHF offers programs that “educate, support and advocate” for those affected by these disorders, including family members. The Foundation awards scholarships to Wisconsin residents who suffer from bleeding disorders. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts along with three letters of reference, and a 500- to 750-word essay outlining their educational goals and summarizing the challenges they face from their disorder.

RLMS_logo

RLMS

The Roma Lodge Merit Scholarship

https://www.romalodge.com/members/roma-lodge-merit-scholarship
Amounts: $4,000 (1 Award); $500 (3 Awards)
Deadline: March 30
The Roma Lodge is a fraternal organization. Members share an appreciation for their Italian heritage and the contributions of Italian-Americans to the nation. Roma Lodge awards four scholarships to children of Lodge members each year. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors that have been accepted for full-time college enrollment. Applications must include high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores, along with two letters of recommendation from professionals.

WAES

The Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship

http://www.heab.state.wi.us/academicexcellence/hard_copy.html
Amounts: $2,250 per year for 4 years
Deadline: September 30
Earning the highest GPA in a Wisconsin private or public school entitles students the Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship. One student is chosen from each high school in the state. Recipients must be accepted and attend a Wisconsin post-secondary institution to qualify; WI Technical College, University of Wisconsin, or other eligible institution within Wisconsin. Students must be enrolled by September 30th of the year awarded.

ISAG

The Indian Student Assistance Grant

http://heab.state.wi.us/docs/finadmin/forms/form-indian.pdf
Amounts: $250 to $1,100
Deadline: Varies
Wisconsin residents with a high school diploma or equivalent who are of 25% or more Native American descent (or are members of a recognized tribe) are eligible for the Indian Student Assistance Grant. The grant, issued by the Higher Educational Aids Board, is available to both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in colleges and universities, including tribal colleges, in the state of Wisconsin. Grants are distributed according to financial need and can be renewed for up to 10 semesters.

WMURG

The Wisconsin Minority Undergraduate Retention Grant

http://heab.state.wi.us/programs.html
Amounts: $250 to $2,500
Deadline: FAFSA Deadline
Wisconsin Minority Undergraduate Retention Grants are awarded to minority undergraduate students who are Wisconsin residents. Applicants must be African American, Native American, Hispanic, and Southeast Asian from Vietnam, Cambodia, or Laos. Grant amounts are issued according to financial need. Applicants must be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible Wisconsin postsecondary institution. These Retention Grants can be renewed for up to eight semesters.

WWAFS_logo

WWAFS

The Wisconsin Women’s Alliance Foundation Scholarship

https://www.lawrence.edu/mfhe/www_core_sub_admiss/Everyone/WBPW%20Guidlines%202012.pdf
Amounts: Up to $1,000
Deadline: Varies
Female students, age 25 and older, who have been accepted to a Wisconsin college or university are eligible for the Wisconsin Women’s Alliance Foundation Scholarship. Recipients are chosen based on financial need, employment history, volunteer activity, and career goals. The number of recipients and monetary value varies annually, with a maximum of $1,000 awarded.

WWAFS

The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Scholarship

https://www.wisconsincattlemen.com/resources/scholarships
Amounts: $500
Deadline: Varies (Previously Feb. 18)
The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s and Cattlewomen’s Scholarship (WCA) is awarded to graduating high school seniors accepted and planning to attend an eligible Wisconsin institution. The scholarship is available to Wisconsin residents who have some background in the beef, veal, or dairy industries. Preference is afforded to students planning to major in an agricultural field in a Wisconsin-based school and family members of WCA members. Several scholarships are awarded annually.

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