Business/Managerial Economics at Cleveland State University

Based on comparable Business/Managerial Economics programs across Ohio, Cleveland State appears positioned right at the state median—suggesting first-year earnings around $60,200 against estimated debt of $21,000. That 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe roughly four months of their first year's salary, which sits comfortably within manageable territory. What's worth noting is that this estimated performance matches what flagship programs like Ohio State and Miami produce, despite Cleveland State's 95% admission rate and significantly lower average SAT scores.

The estimated debt figure actually runs slightly below the national median for this degree ($22,250), while the earnings estimate places graduates at the 75th percentile nationally. For a business economics degree from an accessible urban university, peer programs suggest solid mid-career entry positioning without excessive borrowing. Cleveland State serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (39%), and if these estimates hold, the program delivers professional-level earnings without the debt burden that can trap first-generation college students.

The practical question is whether your student can reasonably expect outcomes in line with these state medians. Cleveland State's open-door policy means academic rigor varies widely among students. If your child can maintain discipline and leverage the urban location for internships, similar Ohio programs suggest they'd enter the workforce earning roughly the state median while managing debt that shouldn't derail their twenties—assuming they complete the degree and secure employment in their field.