Economics at Otterbein University

At $25,000 in estimated debt, this program sits slightly above what's typical for Ohio economics degrees, though the financial picture remains workable. Similar programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $51,500—right in line with both state and national medians for the field. That puts the debt-to-earnings ratio at 0.49, meaning graduates would owe roughly half their annual salary, which falls within a manageable range for a bachelor's degree.

The challenge here is understanding what you're really getting at Otterbein compared to alternatives. Top-performing economics programs in Ohio—including John Carroll, Oberlin, and Cincinnati—show graduates earning $58,000 to $65,000 in their first year, a meaningful premium of $6,500 to $13,500 over what peer programs at similar schools typically produce. With Otterbein's 83% admission rate and moderate selectivity, it's worth asking whether this program offers the same placement networks and employer connections that drive those higher outcomes at more competitive schools.

The core economics training may be solid, but if the estimated figures hold true, your child would start at the statewide average rather than ahead of it. That's not a financial crisis—the debt load is serviceable—but it means banking on career growth rather than a strong launch. Look closely at Otterbein's career services, alumni network in economics, and internship placement record to gauge whether it can help your student beat these baseline projections.