Computer and Information Sciences at Ohio University-Eastern Campus

Ohio University-Eastern Campus produces computer science graduates who earn significantly less than peers at other Ohio schools, despite carrying above-average debt loads. While first-year earnings of $48,515 sit just below the state median of $49,837, they trail the national median by $13,000—landing this program in the 19th percentile nationally. The debt burden of $31,115 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.64, which is manageable but not ideal when you're starting $13,000 behind graduates from flagship programs like Ohio State ($82,448) or Cincinnati ($69,548).

The earnings trajectory offers some reassurance: graduates see steady growth to $53,053 by year four, suggesting the degree opens doors even if starting salaries lag. However, this still represents a considerable gap compared to what computer science graduates typically command. For an anxious parent, the central question is whether the regional campus trade-off—likely lower tuition and proximity to home—justifies starting a tech career at a 40th percentile salary within Ohio.

If cost of attendance is significantly lower than state flagships, this program could work for a student committed to staying in the region. But if you're paying near the same price as larger Ohio universities, the $15,000-$30,000 annual earnings gap compared to top Ohio programs becomes hard to justify. The math only works if Eastern Campus comes with substantial savings upfront.