Analysis
A 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio based on comparable Ohio programs suggests this rehabilitation degree offers reasonable value, though parents should understand that outcomes for this specific program remain unverified. Similar programs in Ohio produce first-year earnings around $36,000, which closely matches the national median for this field—indicating this is likely what the profession pays early on, not just what Ohio University delivers.
The estimated $26,323 in debt aligns with what other rehabilitation programs in the state typically require, putting graduates in a manageable position with monthly payments around $290 on a standard 10-year plan. That represents roughly 10% of gross monthly income based on peer program earnings—workable but tight for someone just starting out. The field appears relatively consistent across Ohio schools, with even top performers like University of Toledo showing only modestly higher earnings.
The real question is whether this field aligns with your child's career goals, since rehabilitation and therapeutic professions often require additional credentials or graduate work for advancement. If this bachelor's serves as a stepping stone to further education, factor in that additional investment. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation, the estimated debt load is serviceable, but recognize you're relying on patterns from peer schools rather than actual Ohio University outcomes. Request completion and job placement rates directly from the program to fill in what the federal data can't tell you.
Where Ohio University-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all rehabilitation and therapeutic professions bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,746 | $35,966* | — | $26,323* | — | |
| $12,377 | $37,554* | $40,733 | $24,875* | 0.66 | |
| $11,188 | $35,966* | $37,095 | $30,000* | 0.83 | |
| $12,799 | $31,765* | $48,443 | $26,323* | 0.83 | |
| National Median | — | $35,966* | — | $26,250* | 0.73 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with rehabilitation and therapeutic professions graduates
Physical Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Low Vision Therapists, Orientation and Mobility Specialists, and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Orthotists and Prosthetists
Recreational Therapists
Exercise Physiologists
Rehabilitation Counselors
Medical Appliance Technicians
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
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-Main Campus, approximately 20% 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 median of 3 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.