Median Earnings (1yr)
$34,983
14th percentile (40th in OH)
Median Debt
$23,050
11% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.66
Manageable
Sample Size
327
Adequate data

Analysis

While Ohio University-Lancaster's teaching program ranks in just the 14th percentile nationally, it performs closer to the middle of the pack within Ohio, landing at the 40th percentile among the state's 62 programs. The $34,983 starting salary falls about $7,000 below the national median for teacher education programs, but it's much closer to Ohio's median of $35,926. This suggests the program's modest outcomes may reflect Ohio's overall teacher compensation landscape rather than program-specific weaknesses.

The financial picture offers some reassurance for families. With $23,050 in median debt—lower than both national and state averages—graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66. That means for every dollar earned in the first year, students owe about 66 cents, which is reasonable for education majors who typically start with lower salaries but gain job security and benefits. Earnings growth of 10% by year four shows steady progression, though graduates will likely need several more years to reach competitive compensation levels.

For parents considering this program, the value proposition is straightforward: lower debt and predictable career outcomes, but modest earning potential. If your child is committed to teaching and wants to stay in Ohio, this program provides an affordable path into the profession without overwhelming debt burdens.

Where Ohio University-Lancaster Campus Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods bachelors's programs nationally

Ohio University-Lancaster CampusOther teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Ohio University-Lancaster Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

Ohio University-Lancaster Campus graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 14th percentile of all teacher education and professional development, specific levels and methods bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio

Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (62 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Ohio University-Lancaster Campus$34,983$38,521$23,0500.66
Ohio Dominican University$42,513$43,278$29,0000.68
Capital University$42,094$43,646$27,0000.64
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus$40,271$40,145$26,0000.65
Mount St. Joseph University$39,660$40,097$28,3430.71
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus$39,607$37,959$27,0000.68
National Median$41,809—$26,0000.62

Other Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Ohio Dominican University
Columbus
$34,370$42,513$29,000
Capital University
Columbus
$41,788$42,094$27,000
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
Bowling Green
$14,081$40,271$26,000
Mount St. Joseph University
Cincinnati
$36,650$39,660$28,343
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati
$13,570$39,607$27,000

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-Lancaster 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 327 graduates with reported earnings and 422 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.