Public Health at Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio State's public health program starts below average but shows remarkable momentum: graduates earning $36,226 initially jump to $57,074 by year four—a 58% increase that outpaces typical career trajectories. That ending salary sits well above both national and Ohio medians, suggesting the program's OSU credentials and connections increasingly pay off as graduates advance. At $18,500 in debt (roughly a third less than the state median), the financial risk here is notably lower than most alternatives.

The challenge is that initial placement. Starting $1,600 below Ohio's median for public health grads means the first year or two may involve more entry-level positioning than some families expect from a flagship university. Among Ohio's 27 public health programs, this one ranks right at the 40th percentile initially—middle of the pack, not leading. Programs like Bowling Green place graduates $11,000 higher right out of the gate.

The reasonable debt load makes this a calculated bet rather than a gamble. If your student can weather modest starting earnings and leverage Ohio State's network into better positions, the four-year trajectory suggests they'll come out ahead. This works best for families who can provide some financial cushion during those early career years while the graduate builds experience and connections.