Analysis
The estimated $6,344 in debt for this certificate positions it among the more affordable options in Ohio's ground transportation field, where programs typically range from $30,000 to $47,000 in first-year earnings. With 85% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves working-class families looking for a quick credential—but the earnings picture based on comparable Ohio programs suggests modest financial returns.
Similar programs across the state produce median earnings around $41,000, putting graduates roughly $20,000 above minimum wage but well below what many skilled trades deliver. The debt load is manageable—representing less than two months of typical first-year pay—but the ceiling appears limited. Top programs in the state show earnings topping out near $47,000, suggesting this field doesn't offer the same upward trajectory as, say, welding or electrical work where experienced workers can command significantly higher wages.
For families considering this path, the math works if your child needs credentials fast and can keep living costs low while launching their career. The low debt-to-earnings ratio (0.16) means graduates aren't financially hamstrung, but transportation and logistics roles at this level typically compete directly with warehouse and delivery positions that require no formal training. Make sure your child understands the specific local job market and employer connections this program offers—those relationships matter more than the certificate itself in determining whether this investment pays off.
Where Ohio Business College-Sheffield Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all ground transportation certificate's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Ground Transportation certificate's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,385 | $40,922* | — | $6,344* | — | |
| — | $47,287* | $46,726 | $6,333* | 0.13 | |
| — | $44,616* | — | —* | — | |
| — | $37,227* | $40,362 | $6,333* | 0.17 | |
| $14,050 | $30,416* | — | $6,333* | 0.21 | |
| National Median | — | $41,414* | — | $7,706* | 0.19 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with ground transportation graduates
Locomotive Engineers
Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers
Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers
Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators
Pile Driver Operators
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Logging Equipment Operators
Bus Drivers, School
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity
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 Ohio Business College-Sheffield, approximately 85% 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 median of 4 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.