Social Work at Ohio State University-Marion Campus

Ohio State Marion's social work program places graduates solidly in the middle of the pack—ranking around the 60th percentile both nationally and among Ohio programs. Starting earnings of $38,739 beat the national median but lag behind several in-state competitors like Capital University ($44,344) and Bowling Green ($40,959). More concerning is what happens after that first year: earnings barely budge, growing just 1% over four years to $39,277. For a field known for modest compensation, that lack of upward trajectory is worth noting.

The debt load of $26,970 sits right at the statewide median, creating a manageable but not impressive debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70. Graduates should be able to handle these payments on a social worker's salary, though they won't have much breathing room. The real question is whether paying similar debt for middle-tier outcomes makes sense when other Ohio schools deliver stronger results at comparable cost.

For families focused on affordability and stability, this program delivers predictable results—you'll enter the workforce earning what most social work majors earn, with typical debt levels. Just understand that the earnings plateau comes quickly, which means career advancement will depend heavily on pursuing an MSW or switching into higher-paying adjacent fields. If your student is committed to direct social work long-term, those modest starting numbers won't climb much without additional credentials.