Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,349
56th percentile (60th in OH)
Median Debt
$25,751
7% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.59
Manageable
Sample Size
42
Adequate data

Analysis

Ohio University-Zanesville's chemistry program posts earnings that match Ohio's median exactly while keeping debt notably lower than most programs—at the 30th percentile nationally, graduates here borrow about $1,750 less than typical chemistry majors. That's a real advantage for students staying in-state, where this campus ranks in the 60th percentile for outcomes among Ohio's 53 chemistry programs.

The trajectory here stands out: graduates see their earnings jump 28% between year one and year four, reaching $55,606. That's solid momentum for a regional campus, suggesting the degree opens doors beyond entry-level lab positions. First-year earnings of $43,349 already surpass the national median, and the debt load—representing just 59% of that first paycheck—is manageable compared to programs where students owe 80-90% of their initial salary.

For families comparing options within Ohio, Zanesville delivers comparable outcomes to larger flagships at a lower debt cost. While Cleveland State and Cincinnati grads earn $4,000-5,000 more initially, they often carry heavier debt burdens. This program works particularly well for students who want a chemistry degree without the financial pressure of larger research universities, especially if they're aiming for manufacturing, quality control, or healthcare roles common in southeastern Ohio's economy.

Where Ohio University-Zanesville Campus Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all chemistry bachelors's programs nationally

Ohio University-Zanesville CampusOther chemistry programs

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-Zanesville Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

Ohio University-Zanesville Campus graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 56th percentile of all chemistry 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

Chemistry bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (53 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Ohio University-Zanesville Campus$43,349$55,606$25,7510.59
Cleveland State University$48,147$55,195$24,7440.51
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus$47,387$62,319$23,7500.50
University of Akron Main Campus$44,970—$27,5000.61
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus$43,840$55,512$26,0000.59
Ohio University-Eastern Campus$43,349$55,606$25,7510.59
National Median$42,581—$24,0000.56

Other Chemistry Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Cleveland State University
Cleveland
$12,613$48,147$24,744
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati
$13,570$47,387$23,750
University of Akron Main Campus
Akron
$12,799$44,970$27,500
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
Bowling Green
$14,081$43,840$26,000
Ohio University-Eastern Campus
Saint Clairsville
$6,178$43,349$25,751

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-Zanesville Campus, approximately 10% 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 42 graduates with reported earnings and 54 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.