Public Health at Robert Morris University

Borrowing $27,000 to earn around $39,000 in your first year isn't ideal, but it's roughly what Pennsylvania's public health bachelor's programs typically deliver. The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 falls within manageable territory—you're not looking at career-defining debt, though repayment will take several years of disciplined budgeting.

The challenge is that these estimates, drawn from similar programs across Pennsylvania, can't tell you what makes Robert Morris specifically different from competitors. Temple and Franklin & Marshall graduates reportedly earn $43,000+, while this program tracks closer to the state median. Public health careers often require graduate degrees for advancement, which means this bachelor's may be a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential. That changes the calculus considerably if your child plans to accumulate more debt for a master's later.

For an accessible program at a school with a 91% admission rate, the numbers suggest you're getting roughly market value—not a standout investment, but not a catastrophic one either. The real question is whether your child has clear career goals that justify both the immediate debt and the likelihood of needing additional education. If they're uncertain about the field or graduate school plans, starting at a lower-cost option might preserve financial flexibility.