Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering at University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Bachelor's Degree
uc.eduAnalysis
University of Cincinnati's aerospace engineering graduates launch their careers earning just above the national median at $75,000, which puts them comfortably ahead of most programs nationwide but squarely in the middle of Ohio's aerospace offerings. At $20,750 in debt—notably lower than both the national and state medians—graduates face a highly manageable debt burden that's just four months of their starting salary.
The program's positioning is straightforward: solid entry-level earnings that grow modestly to $81,000 by year four, competitive with in-state alternatives while costing significantly less in debt than Ohio State or Case Western. Ranking in the 60th percentile among Ohio aerospace programs means it's neither a standout nor a disappointment—it's a reliable middle option at an accessible state school with an 88% admission rate. The relatively modest earnings growth of 8% over four years suggests graduates start at a reasonable baseline rather than commanding premium starting salaries that accelerate quickly.
For Ohio families, this represents a practical path into aerospace without the debt load that often accompanies engineering degrees. You're not paying for elite outcomes, but you're getting dependable industry access with financial breathing room from day one.
Where University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all aerospace, aeronautical and astronautical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Cincinnati-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $74,992 | $80,934 | +8% |
| California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | $85,509 | $101,270 | +18% |
| University of Southern California | $78,980 | $97,304 | +23% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $72,062 | $80,463 | +12% |
| Case Western Reserve University | $83,639 | $79,428 | -5% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,570 | $74,992 | $80,934 | $20,750 | 0.28 | |
| $64,671 | $83,639 | $79,428 | $26,410 | 0.32 | |
| $12,859 | $72,062 | $80,463 | $25,853 | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $72,210 | — | $25,000 | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with aerospace, aeronautical and astronautical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Aerospace Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Avionics Technicians
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 University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, approximately 18% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 37 graduates with reported earnings and 62 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.