Physics at Cedarville University

Physics programs across Ohio vary significantly in outcomes, with Ohio State reporting $53,504 in first-year earnings. Peer physics programs nationally suggest around $47,670 for bachelor's degree holders, which would place Cedarville's program about $6,000 below the state median. That gap matters when you're calculating return on investment.

The estimated debt load of $23,120 produces a manageable 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning graduates would owe roughly half their first year's salary. This is considerably better than many other fields where debt can equal or exceed annual earnings. Physics degrees traditionally provide strong foundations for various career paths, from engineering firms to data science roles, though starting salaries depend heavily on whether graduates pursue graduate school, teaching positions, or industry work immediately.

The real question is whether Cedarville's specific program—at a selective Christian university with solid SAT scores—delivers outcomes closer to Ohio State's reported figures or falls nearer the national baseline used for these estimates. With only 15% of students receiving Pell grants, the student body skews toward families with resources, which could indicate stronger professional networks but also suggests less financial aid cushion. If your student is considering graduate school in physics or related fields, the debt level is reasonable. If they're planning to work immediately after graduation, investigate whether Cedarville's industry connections and career placement justify potential earnings closer to $48,000 than $54,000.