Public Health at Ohio University-Main Campus

Ohio University's public health bachelor's produces graduates with relatively modest first-year earnings of $37,883, but the program's strength lies in its manageable debt load. At $27,000, students graduate with below-average debt—ranking in the 30th percentile nationally—which creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71. That's a reasonable starting point for a helping profession, though it's worth noting that several Ohio schools like Bowling Green produce graduates earning $9,000 more annually right out of the gate.

The program sits squarely at Ohio's median for public health earnings while performing slightly above the national average. The 60th percentile state ranking suggests it's a solid mid-tier option among Ohio's 27 public health programs, though not exceptional. For families considering the broader Ohio University system, the main Athens campus matches the earnings of its regional campuses at Eastern and Chillicothe, so location flexibility won't cost your child in terms of career outcomes.

The real question is whether public health salaries align with your family's expectations. Under $38,000 is typical for this field nationally, reflecting the reality that many graduates enter nonprofit or government roles. If your child is committed to public health work, the controlled debt here matters more than the modest starting salary—they can actually manage their payments without derailing other life goals. Just ensure they understand they're choosing impact over income.