Political Science and Government at Ohio Dominican University

A $26,000 debt load against first-year earnings around $37,000 places this program squarely in the middle of what Ohio's political science graduates typically experience. Based on comparable programs across the state, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 falls within a manageable range—roughly what you'd expect from similar schools in Ohio. The estimated earnings align almost exactly with the state median for this degree, suggesting neither exceptional nor disappointing outcomes relative to peers.

The gap between Ohio Dominican and Ohio's stronger political science programs is worth noting. Miami University and Ashland University graduates earn $7,000-$9,000 more in their first year, though these schools likely draw different student populations and may have stronger alumni networks in Columbus and beyond. Still, the estimated figures here track closely with what Capital University—another private institution in Columbus—produces, suggesting the local market treats these credentials similarly.

For an anxious parent, the key question is whether your child has a clear post-graduation plan. Political science at this level rarely leads directly to high-paying work without graduate school or strategic internships during college. The manageable debt provides flexibility for that next step, but this isn't a degree where the bachelor's alone typically commands strong starting salaries. If law school, public administration, or another credential is part of the plan, the relatively modest debt burden is actually an advantage.