Analysis
Ohio University-Eastern's social work program sits right at the state median for earnings—both institutions report $37,990 one year out—while managing to keep debt notably lower at $23,570 compared to the Ohio median of $26,985. That's about $3,400 less borrowed, which matters in a field where starting salaries rarely crack $40,000. The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Ohio's 41 social work programs, meaning it outperforms more schools than it trails.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 is manageable, and graduates see decent income growth—14% by year four brings median earnings to $43,103. This growth trajectory suggests that social work careers at this campus follow typical professional development patterns. However, graduates aren't reaching the salary levels seen at programs like Capital University ($44,344) or Bowling Green ($40,959). Still, for students seeking an affordable entry point into social work, particularly those who can benefit from the regional campus setting, the lower debt burden helps offset the modest starting salary.
For families prioritizing affordability in social work education, this program delivers reasonable value. The combination of below-median debt and at-median earnings creates a safer financial foundation than many alternatives, even if it won't lead to top-tier salaries within the state.
Where Ohio University-Eastern Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Ohio University-Eastern Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University-Eastern Campus | $37,990 | $43,103 | +13% |
| Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | $40,959 | $45,206 | +10% |
| Cedarville University | $35,967 | $45,097 | +25% |
| Capital University | $44,344 | $44,174 | -0% |
| Wright State University-Main Campus | $39,926 | $44,078 | +10% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Social Work bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (41 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,178 | $37,990 | $43,103 | $23,570 | 0.62 | |
| $41,788 | $44,344 | $44,174 | $43,038 | 0.97 | |
| $14,081 | $40,959 | $45,206 | $27,000 | 0.66 | |
| $11,188 | $39,926 | $44,078 | $28,250 | 0.71 | |
| $13,570 | $39,292 | $41,234 | $29,125 | 0.74 | |
| $12,377 | $39,254 | $42,056 | $31,000 | 0.79 | |
| National Median | — | $37,296 | — | $26,362 | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social work graduates
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Marriage and Family Therapists
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Healthcare Social Workers
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Social Workers, All Other
Counselors, All Other
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.
Sample Size: Based on 90 graduates with reported earnings and 142 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.