Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Otterbein University

Comparable liberal arts programs in Ohio suggest first-year earnings around $40,600—slightly above the national median for this degree—but the estimated debt load of $27,600 creates a workable starting point with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68. That's roughly 68% of a year's salary in loans, which translates to manageable monthly payments if your child secures steady employment. The challenge is that "liberal arts" covers an enormous range of actual career paths, from social services to administrative roles to education, so these peer program figures represent a wide variety of outcomes rather than a clear trajectory.

What's worth noting is that some Ohio schools with reported data show stronger numbers—Xavier hits $47,000 and Ohio State reaches $43,400—suggesting that institutional brand or regional connections can make a real difference in this field. Otterbein's 83% admission rate and solid SAT average indicate a respectable but not elite academic environment, which may matter less for liberal arts graduates than the specific skills and networks your child builds during college.

The practical question is whether this degree leads somewhere specific for your child. If they're using it as a stepping stone to graduate school or have a clear career plan that values broad analytical skills, the estimated debt burden isn't alarming. If they're exploring without direction, the modest earnings suggest they'll need to be intentional about internships and career development to justify the investment.