Analysis
John Carroll graduates entering education careers start with earnings slightly below the national median but perform better than 60% of Ohio's education programs—a meaningful distinction since most teachers stay in-state. The $27,000 debt load sits well below typical borrowing for education degrees nationwide, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 that's quite manageable for a teaching salary. By year four, earnings reach $45,762, representing solid 21% growth that likely reflects contract raises and credential advancement.
The program costs less than most Ohio alternatives while producing comparable or better outcomes. Among the state's 23 education programs, John Carroll matches the median debt while exceeding median earnings. This matters more than national comparisons because Ohio teaching salaries and certification requirements will largely determine career trajectory. The moderate sample size suggests consistent, if not spectacular, placement into teaching positions.
For families specifically targeting education careers in Ohio, this represents a straightforward value: lower-than-average debt with middle-of-the-pack starting salaries that grow predictably. The 81% admission rate means access shouldn't be an obstacle, and the debt burden won't force graduates into higher-paying fields they didn't plan for. It's a practical path into teaching without the financial strain that derails some education majors.
Where John Carroll University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all education bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How John Carroll University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Carroll University | $37,978 | $45,762 | +20% |
| Brown University | $33,866 | $61,660 | +82% |
| Heidelberg University | $35,895 | $40,411 | +13% |
| Kent State University at Kent | $37,370 | $36,833 | -1% |
| Wilmington College | $37,015 | $35,768 | -3% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Education bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $49,100 | $37,978 | $45,762 | $27,000 | 0.71 | |
| $12,846 | $37,370 | $36,833 | $30,782 | 0.82 | |
| $30,962 | $37,015 | $35,768 | $27,000 | 0.73 | |
| $33,628 | $35,895 | $40,411 | $27,000 | 0.75 | |
| National Median | — | $38,660 | — | $26,522 | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with education graduates
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 John Carroll University, approximately 20% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 47 graduates with reported earnings and 58 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.