Somatic Bodywork at Dayton School of Medical Massage

Dayton School of Medical Massage produces graduates who earn exactly Ohio's median for somatic bodywork programs, but with significantly higher debt burdens that should concern cost-conscious families. While first-year earnings of $20,801 place graduates in the 60th percentile statewide, the $13,458 in typical debt is nearly 28% above Ohio's median for this field. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65—manageable but not ideal for a certificate program.

The debt picture becomes more troubling when compared nationally. With 76% of students receiving Pell grants, many come from lower-income backgrounds yet graduate owing considerably more than peers elsewhere. The program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for debt levels, meaning 95% of similar programs nationwide saddle students with less debt. Even among Ohio competitors, several schools like Stautzenberger College-Maumee deliver similar or better earnings with presumably lower debt loads.

The modest 9% earnings growth over four years suggests limited income advancement potential, typical for hands-on wellness fields. For families prioritizing affordability, exploring lower-cost alternatives within Ohio makes sense—the earnings differences are small enough that minimizing debt should take precedence over marginal performance advantages.