Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,509
40th percentile (40th in OH)
Median Debt
$26,000
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.60
Manageable
Sample Size
381
Adequate data

Analysis

Kent State Geauga's business program delivers exactly median performance—ranking at the 40th percentile both nationally and within Ohio. While graduates start at $43,509, which trails the national average by about $2,200, the debt load of $26,000 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60. This puts students in a reasonable financial position, even if not a standout one.

The 17% earnings growth over four years brings graduates to $50,908, suggesting solid career progression. However, this still leaves them earning significantly less than peers at Ohio's top business programs—Miami University grads earn $67,823 compared to Kent State Geauga's $50,908. The gap between this regional campus and flagship programs is substantial and worth considering if your child can access those alternatives.

For families prioritizing affordability and local access, this program offers a straightforward path to a business degree without crushing debt. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives confidence in these outcomes. But if your child is competitive for admission at Ohio's stronger business programs and can manage any additional costs, those alternatives could provide significantly better long-term earning potential.

Where Kent State University at Geauga Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

Kent State University at GeaugaOther business administration, management and operations 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 Geauga graduates compare to all programs nationally

Kent State University at Geauga graduates earn $44k, placing them in the 40th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors 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

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (64 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Kent State University at Geauga$43,509$50,908$26,0000.60
Miami University-Oxford$67,823$84,103$25,0000.37
University of Dayton$63,897$75,643$23,3640.37
Ohio State University-Main Campus$61,423$73,933$23,2500.38
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus$60,807$70,489$25,0000.41
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus$60,360$77,827$23,4520.39
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Miami University-Oxford
Oxford
$17,809$67,823$25,000
University of Dayton
Dayton
$47,600$63,897$23,364
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus
$12,859$61,423$23,250
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
Bowling Green
$14,081$60,807$25,000
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati
$13,570$60,360$23,452

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 Geauga, approximately 27% 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 381 graduates with reported earnings and 375 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.