Analysis
In Ohio's competitive education market, peer programs suggest starting salaries around $37,000—squarely in line with what teachers typically earn statewide and nationally. The estimated $27,000 debt load positions this program right at Ohio's median for education degrees. What's significant here is Ohio Wesleyan's stronger academic profile (SAT averaging 1311, 51% admission rate) compared to most teacher preparation programs in the state, yet the earnings trajectory appears identical to less selective institutions.
The 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within manageable territory for education majors, though that first-year salary will feel tight. Similar programs across Ohio—from Kent State to smaller private colleges—produce remarkably consistent outcomes in the $35,000-$38,000 range, reflecting the reality of teacher salary schedules that compress pay regardless of where you earned your degree. The real question becomes whether Ohio Wesleyan's liberal arts environment and smaller class sizes justify similar debt levels to programs at public universities, where in-state tuition might produce lower borrowing.
For families weighing this investment, understand that teaching credentials lead to relatively uniform starting salaries, making program cost the critical variable. The estimated figures suggest Ohio Wesleyan sits in the middle of the pack financially while potentially offering a different educational experience. If your child is committed to teaching, compare the actual net price here against public alternatives—that difference matters more than the institutional prestige when salaries are determined by state pay scales.
Where Ohio Wesleyan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all education bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Education bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $52,357 | $37,193* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $49,100 | $37,978* | $45,762 | $27,000* | 0.71 | |
| $12,846 | $37,370* | $36,833 | $30,782* | 0.82 | |
| $30,962 | $37,015* | $35,768 | $27,000* | 0.73 | |
| $33,628 | $35,895* | $40,411 | $27,000* | 0.75 | |
| National Median | — | $38,660* | — | $26,522* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with education graduates
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 Wesleyan University, approximately 25% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.