Median Earnings (1yr)
$34,969
95th percentile (60th in OH)
Median Debt
$20,500
87% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.59
Manageable
Sample Size
892
Adequate data

Analysis

Kent State East Liverpool's liberal arts program delivers impressive earnings outcomes that significantly outperform national expectations, with graduates earning $34,969 in their first year—nearly $8,000 above the national median for similar programs and ranking in the 95th percentile nationally. However, the story becomes more nuanced when compared to Ohio peers, where it sits at the 60th percentile, suggesting strong in-state competition.

The program's financial profile is particularly compelling. At $20,500 in median debt, students graduate with manageable borrowing that's well below Ohio's typical $17,500 for similar programs, yet still reasonable given the higher earnings. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 means graduates can expect to earn back their entire educational investment in roughly seven months of post-graduation income—an excellent return.

While this program doesn't crack Ohio's top tier (programs like Marion Technical College earn $17,000 more annually), it offers solid value for students seeking a broad liberal arts foundation. The 11% earnings growth over four years suggests career progression potential, and the robust sample size makes these outcomes reliable. For families considering this path, the combination of above-average earnings and reasonable debt makes this a financially sound choice, especially if your child values the flexibility that comes with a general studies background.

Where Kent State University at East Liverpool Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities associates's programs nationally

Kent State University at East LiverpoolOther liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Kent State University at East Liverpool graduates compare to all programs nationally

Kent State University at East Liverpool graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities associates programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (76 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Kent State University at East Liverpool$34,969$38,697$20,5000.59
Marion Technical College$51,927$51,765$12,8120.25
Franciscan University of Steubenville$43,602—$20,1990.46
Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus$36,942$30,774$23,2280.63
Ohio University-Eastern Campus$36,942$30,774$23,2280.63
Ohio University-Southern Campus$36,942$30,774$23,2280.63
National Median$27,248—$10,9500.40

Other Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Marion Technical College
Marion
$6,475$51,927$12,812
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Steubenville
$32,630$43,602$20,199
Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus
Chillicothe
$6,178$36,942$23,228
Ohio University-Eastern Campus
Saint Clairsville
$6,178$36,942$23,228
Ohio University-Southern Campus
Ironton
$6,178$36,942$23,228

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 Kent State University at East Liverpool, approximately 24% 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 892 graduates with reported earnings and 2340 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.