Family and Consumer Economics at Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio State's Family and Consumer Economics program outperforms most similar programs nationally—landing in the 78th percentile for earnings—but sits at the median among Ohio's limited options. Starting at $46,474 and climbing to nearly $57,000 by year four, these graduates earn roughly $6,000 more than the national median for this field right out of the gate. The $25,000 debt load means graduates owe about half their first-year salary, a manageable ratio that should allow for comfortable repayment on a standard 10-year plan.

The 22% earnings growth over four years suggests solid career progression, though it's worth noting only four Ohio schools offer this program, making state-level comparisons less meaningful. What matters more is that Ohio State graduates consistently out-earn their national peers while taking on typical debt levels for the field. The program attracts a relatively affluent student body (just 19% on Pell grants) at a selective institution, which may partly explain the stronger outcomes.

For families considering this degree, the numbers paint a straightforward picture: it's a practical path to middle-income employment with debt that won't dominate your budget. You won't get rich teaching nutrition or managing family services programs, but you'll earn a stable living from day one and see meaningful salary increases as you gain experience.