Public Health at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's public health program produces concerning financial outcomes that rank below average both nationally and within Illinois. Graduates earn $35,023 in their first year—about $5,000 less than the state median and $2,500 below the national average. While the debt load of $29,223 sits slightly above national norms, the real issue is the earning power: this program ranks in just the 27th percentile nationally and 40th percentile statewide, meaning most comparable programs deliver stronger returns.

The gap with other Illinois schools is substantial. Illinois State's public health graduates earn nearly $60,000 their first year out—almost $25,000 more than SIUE. Even more modest programs like Governors State outpace SIUE by over $1,500. The 0.83 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates carry debt equivalent to 83% of their first-year salary, which can strain budgets when many entry-level public health positions already pay modestly.

For families considering this program, the numbers suggest exploring alternatives within Illinois first. If your student is set on SIUE for other reasons—location, campus fit, or cost advantages—they should understand they're likely accepting lower starting earnings than peer programs offer. The 97% admission rate means access isn't the barrier; the question is whether the financial trade-off makes sense for your family's situation.