Analysis
Ohio University-Zanesville's physiology and pathology program shows an unusual pattern: first-year earnings that match the state median but significantly trail the state's top performers, combined with exceptionally strong earnings growth. Graduates start at $36,886—solidly above the $30,962 national average but lagging behind programs at schools like University of Cincinnati ($52,119) and Case Western ($58,732). However, by year four, earnings jump 63% to over $60,000, suggesting graduates may start in entry-level positions before moving into more specialized roles.
The debt picture is favorable. At $26,786, it matches the Ohio median and sits in just the 9th percentile nationally—meaning 91% of comparable programs saddle students with more debt. The 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, and that ratio improves dramatically as earnings grow. However, it's worth noting that all Ohio University regional campuses report identical earnings data, which raises questions about whether these figures truly reflect this specific campus or are averaged across the entire OU system.
This program makes sense for students seeking a solid healthcare science education with controlled costs, particularly if they're prepared for a potentially slower career start. The combination of low debt and strong mid-career earnings suggests good long-term value, though students targeting the highest-paying healthcare roles might consider the state's more competitive programs. The moderate sample size adds some uncertainty, but the earnings trajectory points toward genuine career advancement opportunities.
Where Ohio University-Zanesville Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all physiology, pathology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Ohio University-Zanesville Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University-Zanesville Campus | $36,886 | $60,077 | +63% |
| Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus | $36,886 | $60,077 | +63% |
| Ohio University-Lancaster Campus | $36,886 | $60,077 | +63% |
| Ohio University-Main Campus | $36,886 | $60,077 | +63% |
| Ohio University-Eastern Campus | $36,886 | $60,077 | +63% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Physiology, Pathology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,178 | $36,886 | $60,077 | $26,786 | 0.73 | |
| $6,178 | $36,886 | $60,077 | $26,786 | 0.73 | |
| $6,178 | $36,886 | $60,077 | $26,786 | 0.73 | |
| $13,746 | $36,886 | $60,077 | $26,786 | 0.73 | |
| $6,178 | $36,886 | $60,077 | $26,786 | 0.73 | |
| $6,178 | $36,886 | $60,077 | $26,786 | 0.73 | |
| National Median | — | $30,962 | — | $23,384 | 0.76 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with physiology, pathology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Exercise Physiologists
Biological Scientists, All Other
Bioinformatics Scientists
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Geneticists
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 53 graduates with reported earnings and 105 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.