Psychology at Ohio University-Southern Campus
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Ohio University-Southern's psychology program shows something unusual: it exactly matches Ohio's median for both earnings and debt, yet delivers stronger-than-expected growth over time. While graduates start at $30,682—slightly below the national median—they reach $40,267 by year four, a 31% increase that outpaces typical psychology trajectories. That 60th percentile ranking among Ohio programs means this campus performs better than most in-state options, though students will still trail elite private schools like Kenyon by a significant margin.
The $25,000 debt load aligns perfectly with state and national norms, creating a manageable 0.81 debt-to-earnings ratio at graduation. What matters here is the earnings momentum: that year-four figure moves graduates well above where they started and suggests the degree opens doors to better-paying roles with experience. The low Pell grant percentage (12%) is worth noting—this campus serves a different demographic than many regional campuses.
For parents weighing in-state options, this program offers middle-of-the-pack safety with better-than-average upward trajectory. Your child won't start with impressive earnings, but the four-year growth pattern suggests they won't stay stuck at entry-level wages either. The value proposition depends on whether they can leverage that momentum into careers that continue the upward climb.
Where Ohio University-Southern Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology 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 $31k, placing them in the 43th percentile of all psychology 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
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (74 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University-Southern Campus | $30,682 | $40,267 | $25,000 | 0.81 |
| Kenyon College | $39,203 | $42,073 | $19,000 | 0.48 |
| Muskingum University | $37,636 | $34,807 | $27,625 | 0.73 |
| John Carroll University | $36,602 | $43,225 | $27,000 | 0.74 |
| Miami University-Hamilton | $36,190 | $46,978 | $24,094 | 0.67 |
| Miami University-Middletown | $36,190 | $46,978 | $24,094 | 0.67 |
| National Median | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Other Psychology Programs in Ohio
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenyon College Gambier | $69,330 | $39,203 | $19,000 |
| Muskingum University New Concord | $31,440 | $37,636 | $27,625 |
| John Carroll University University Heights | $49,100 | $36,602 | $27,000 |
| Miami University-Hamilton Hamilton | $7,278 | $36,190 | $24,094 |
| Miami University-Middletown Middletown | $7,278 | $36,190 | $24,094 |
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 195 graduates with reported earnings and 306 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.