Analysis
Comparable bachelor's programs in Human Services nationally suggest first-year earnings around $36,600—a modest starting point for a career focused on social impact rather than high pay. The estimated debt load of $27,925 actually falls below both the national and Ohio medians for this field, positioning this program as a more affordable entry point than many alternatives. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76, graduates would need roughly three-quarters of their first year's salary to cover their educational investment, which is manageable though not particularly generous.
The challenge here is that Human Services roles, while meaningful, rarely command premium salaries even with experience. Similar programs across the country produce fairly consistent earnings regardless of geography, suggesting the field itself—not the specific school—largely determines income potential. The relatively low Pell grant percentage at this campus (9%) may indicate students come from families with more financial cushion, though it's worth considering whether your student could access more financial aid elsewhere.
For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether your student is committed to this specific field. If they're passionate about direct service work and social impact, the estimated debt burden appears reasonable compared to peer programs. But if they're uncertain about the career path, the limited earning potential means there's little financial margin for course correction after graduation.
Where Ohio University-Eastern Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Human Services bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,178 | $36,630* | — | $27,925* | — | |
| $21,198 | $51,659* | — | $35,166* | 0.68 | |
| $46,212 | $46,184* | — | —* | — | |
| $63,141 | $45,799* | $37,367 | $26,000* | 0.57 | |
| — | $45,799* | $37,367 | $26,000* | 0.57 | |
| $9,780 | $45,751* | $48,069 | $31,000* | 0.68 | |
| National Median | — | $36,630* | — | $31,573* | 0.86 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with human services graduates
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 University-Eastern Campus, approximately 9% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 84 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.