Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at Shawnee State University

Based on comparable geosciences programs across Ohio, Shawnee State's estimated outcomes—$38,637 in first-year earnings against $19,500 in debt—land right at the state median. That 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe roughly half their first year's salary, a manageable burden that aligns with what peers typically face. The estimated debt also runs about $5,000 below the national median for this field, suggesting students here may be taking on less financial risk than at many other institutions.

The earnings projection sits just below the national median of $39,678, but that's splitting hairs—we're talking about a difference of roughly $1,000. What matters more is that similar Ohio programs, including those at larger state universities like Ohio State and Kent State, show first-year earnings clustering in the $38,000-$41,000 range. Shawnee State's estimated outcomes fit comfortably within this competitive landscape.

For families weighing this investment, the lower debt load deserves attention, especially given that 35% of students receive Pell grants. While these figures are extrapolated from peer programs rather than verified outcomes from Shawnee State graduates specifically, the pattern suggests a program that won't saddle students with outsized debt. The real question is whether your student is genuinely committed to geosciences—because the payoff depends on entering a field where that bachelor's degree opens doors.