Analysis
Ohio's security science programs cluster tightly around $44,000 in first-year earnings, and Findlay appears positioned right at this state median based on comparable programs. That's modestly above the $39,000 national median for this field, though the relatively compressed earning range—even top programs barely crack $44,000—suggests limited upside in those critical early career years.
The estimated $27,000 debt load translates to a 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio, which falls within manageable territory but isn't particularly generous given the starting salary. You're looking at monthly payments that could strain a $44,000 income, especially in the first few years when raises may come slowly in this field. Nationally, students pursuing this major typically graduate with $25,000 in debt, so Findlay's estimate tracks slightly higher than the benchmark.
The practical question is whether this specific security specialization opens doors that a broader criminal justice or IT security degree wouldn't. Since these figures come from peer programs rather than Findlay's actual graduates, verify what employers are recruiting from this program and whether the curriculum includes certifications that command higher salaries. At these earnings levels, the credential needs to deliver clear career access—not just a degree name—to justify the investment.
Where The University of Findlay Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all security science and technology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Security Science and Technology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,646 | $43,918* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $7,278 | $43,918* | — | —* | — | |
| $7,278 | $43,918* | — | —* | — | |
| $17,809 | $43,918* | — | —* | — | |
| $32,400 | $38,994* | — | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| National Median | — | $39,252* | — | $25,000* | 0.64 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with security science and technology graduates
Information Security Analysts
Geographers
Financial Examiners
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Accountants and Auditors
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Intelligence Analysts
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Customs and Border Protection Officers
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.