Economics at Ohio University-Southern Campus
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Ohio University-Southern Campus's economics graduates face a difficult reality: starting salaries of $46,655 lag both state and national medians by roughly $5,000. While that debt load of $19,750 looks manageable compared to the typical economics grad, the 40th percentile standing among Ohio programs means students are paying less but also earning significantly less than peers at mainstream state schools like Cincinnati ($58,590) or Miami-Oxford ($57,379). The small cohort size—fewer than 30 graduates tracked—adds uncertainty to these figures.
The 24% earnings growth over four years offers some reassurance, bringing graduates to $58,025 by year four. That trajectory eventually catches up to what many programs deliver at year one, suggesting the regional campus experience may cost students early-career momentum. For families prioritizing affordability and regional access, the sub-$20,000 debt figure matters. But parents should recognize their student will likely start behind peers from Ohio's flagship universities and face a longer climb to competitive earnings in economics roles.
Where Ohio University-Southern Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
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-Southern Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Ohio University-Southern Campus graduates earn $47k, placing them in the 30th percentile of all economics 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
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (42 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University-Southern Campus | $46,655 | $58,025 | $19,750 | 0.42 |
| John Carroll University | $65,098 | $67,845 | $27,000 | 0.41 |
| Oberlin College | $61,713 | $64,495 | $25,000 | 0.41 |
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $58,590 | $70,663 | $21,264 | 0.36 |
| Kenyon College | $58,082 | $75,347 | $18,718 | 0.32 |
| Miami University-Oxford | $57,379 | $80,452 | $25,500 | 0.44 |
| National Median | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Other Economics Programs in Ohio
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Carroll University University Heights | $49,100 | $65,098 | $27,000 |
| Oberlin College Oberlin | $64,646 | $61,713 | $25,000 |
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Cincinnati | $13,570 | $58,590 | $21,264 |
| Kenyon College Gambier | $69,330 | $58,082 | $18,718 |
| Miami University-Oxford Oxford | $17,809 | $57,379 | $25,500 |
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-Southern Campus, approximately 12% 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 17 graduates with reported earnings and 20 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.