Analysis
Based on comparable education programs in Ohio, Findlay's estimated first-year earnings of $37,193 land squarely at the state median—nearly identical to what Kent State and Wilmington College graduates report. The estimated $27,000 debt load also mirrors the Ohio norm, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.73 that suggests manageable monthly payments, likely around $300 for standard 10-year repayment.
The challenge is that education salaries don't climb dramatically with experience, and Ohio's teacher pay scales are well-documented. Similar programs across the state cluster tightly in the mid-$30,000s, with even top performers like John Carroll barely cracking $38,000 in year one. Nationally, education bachelor's programs show the same pattern—a $38,660 median with limited upside even at the 75th percentile.
For parents, the key question isn't whether Findlay offers good value relative to other Ohio education programs—the estimates suggest it's competitive—but whether the teaching profession's financial reality works for your family. The debt appears reasonable for the field, but you're financing preparation for a career with predictable, modest starting salaries. If your child is committed to education, this program shouldn't deter them, but clarity about the profession's earning trajectory matters more than choosing among Ohio's similarly-positioned programs.
Where The University of Findlay Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all education bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Education bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,646 | $37,193* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $49,100 | $37,978* | $45,762 | $27,000* | 0.71 | |
| $12,846 | $37,370* | $36,833 | $30,782* | 0.82 | |
| $30,962 | $37,015* | $35,768 | $27,000* | 0.73 | |
| $33,628 | $35,895* | $40,411 | $27,000* | 0.75 | |
| National Median | — | $38,660* | — | $26,522* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with education graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At The University of Findlay, approximately 14% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.