Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72 suggests manageable student loans, though that conclusion rests entirely on estimates drawn from peer programs across Ohio rather than Baldwin Wallace's actual outcomes. Social work degrees typically carry this challenge: the field demands significant education but offers modest starting pay—comparable programs in the state suggest first-year earnings around $38,000, matching the national median for bachelor's-level social workers.
The estimated $27,337 debt figure aligns closely with what Ohio social work programs typically produce, and at 72% of first-year earnings, the burden appears sustainable under standard repayment plans. However, Baldwin Wallace's numbers tell us nothing specific about how their curriculum, field placements, or regional employer connections might affect graduate outcomes. The schools with reported data in Ohio show a wide spread—Capital University graduates earn $44,344 while others cluster in the high $39,000s—suggesting that program quality and local job markets matter considerably.
For families considering Baldwin Wallace specifically, the core question remains unanswerable with estimated data: does this program justify its cost compared to alternatives? The statewide averages suggest a workable financial picture for social work graduates, but without knowing whether Baldwin Wallace performs above or below that average, you're making decisions in the dark. If your child is committed to social work, compare the actual support systems, internship networks, and licensure preparation across Ohio programs—the financial fundamentals appear reasonable, but the distinguishing factors lie in program specifics these estimates can't capture.
Where Baldwin Wallace University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Social Work bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (41 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,938 | $37,990* | — | $27,337* | — | |
| $41,788 | $44,344* | $44,174 | $43,038* | 0.97 | |
| $14,081 | $40,959* | $45,206 | $27,000* | 0.66 | |
| $11,188 | $39,926* | $44,078 | $28,250* | 0.71 | |
| $13,570 | $39,292* | $41,234 | $29,125* | 0.74 | |
| $12,377 | $39,254* | $42,056 | $31,000* | 0.79 | |
| National Median | — | $37,296* | — | $26,362* | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social work graduates
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Marriage and Family Therapists
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Healthcare Social Workers
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Social Workers, All Other
Counselors, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Baldwin Wallace University, approximately 28% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 23 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.