Median Earnings (1yr)
$39,743
95th percentile
Median Debt
$12,000
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.30
Manageable
Sample Size
27
Limited data

Analysis

Ohio State's Animal Sciences associate's degree shows impressive national performance, ranking in the 95th percentile with first-year earnings of $39,743—well above the national median of $32,687. The $12,000 in median debt translates to a comfortable 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio, and graduates see solid 13% earnings growth by year four. These are objectively strong numbers for a two-year program.

However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures may not represent typical outcomes. With only three Ohio schools offering this program and limited graduates tracked, it's hard to know if these results are reliable or if they reflect a few exceptional career paths. The 60th percentile ranking within Ohio suggests this program performs merely average compared to in-state alternatives, though the raw numbers remain solid regardless.

For parents considering this path, the low debt burden is the real advantage—your child could test out animal sciences with minimal financial risk. The earnings are respectable for an associate's degree, though families should verify whether these outcomes align with their student's specific career goals. Given the uncertainty around sample size, treat this as a potentially strong option worth investigating further rather than a guaranteed win.

Where Ohio State University-Main Campus Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all animal sciences associates's programs nationally

Ohio State University-Main CampusOther animal sciences 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 Ohio State University-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

Ohio State University-Main Campus graduates earn $40k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all animal sciences 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

Animal Sciences associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (3 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Ohio State University-Main Campus$39,743$45,051$12,0000.30
Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute$39,743$45,051$12,0000.30
National Median$32,687—$12,0000.37

Other Animal Sciences Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute
Wooster
$9,310$39,743$12,000

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 State University-Main Campus, approximately 19% 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 27 graduates with reported earnings and 48 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.