Analysis
Similar engineering bachelor's programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $67,900, which would place graduates in a strong position to manage the estimated $26,500 in debt. That 0.39 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably in the sustainable range for a technical field, though it's worth noting these figures come from peer programs rather than Muskingum's specific track record.
What matters more here is context. With 277 schools nationally offering engineering bachelor's degrees, Muskingum operates in a crowded field where outcomes can vary significantly based on program specialization, industry connections, and regional employer relationships. The university's 82% admission rate and modest SAT profile suggest a less selective environment than many engineering programs, which sometimes correlates with different career trajectories—though the absence of reported Ohio comparisons makes it difficult to assess where this program truly fits within the state's engineering landscape.
The real question becomes whether Muskingum offers the specialized resources—labs, internship pipelines, faculty expertise—that justify choosing a smaller program over Ohio's numerous alternatives. If those elements are strong and the estimated numbers hold true, this could work financially. But given the uncertainty in the data and the competitive nature of engineering hiring, prospective students should verify actual graduate outcomes directly from the school and confirm that the specific engineering discipline offered aligns with regional job demand.
Where Muskingum University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Engineering bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $31,440 | $67,911* | — | $26,459* | — | |
| $64,458 | $109,455* | $114,228 | $14,512* | 0.13 | |
| $66,255 | $92,491* | $103,969 | $22,240* | 0.24 | |
| $68,230 | $86,416* | $87,937 | $14,500* | 0.17 | |
| $15,247 | $82,956* | $104,701 | $15,000* | 0.18 | |
| $41,010 | $78,211* | — | $27,000* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $67,911* | — | $26,056* | 0.38 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
Microsystems Engineers
Photonics Engineers
Robotics Engineers
Nanosystems Engineers
Wind Energy Engineers
Solar Energy Systems Engineers
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 Muskingum University, approximately 41% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 47 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.