Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Ohio University-Southern Campus

Ohio University-Southern's mental health services program lands right at the state median—literally matching Ohio's typical earnings of $40,516 in year one while carrying debt slightly below the state average. With ten programs to choose from across Ohio, this one sits squarely in the middle of the pack, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide.

The economics work in graduates' favor. A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.64 means the typical graduate carries less than eight months' salary in loans—manageable by most standards. Earnings also show modest growth to $42,687 by year four, though that 5% increase barely outpaces inflation. Nationally, this program performs slightly above average, placing in the 61st percentile among 140 similar programs across the country.

What's striking is how consistent earnings are across Ohio University's satellite campuses. Whether students attend in Ironton, Lancaster, or Chillicothe, they see identical first-year outcomes, suggesting the degree holds the same value regardless of location. For families in southeastern Ohio, that makes this a reasonable local option without the risk of relocating for marginal gains. The main question is whether the modest salary trajectory—barely moving the needle over four years—aligns with long-term career goals in a field where advancement often requires graduate credentials.