Median Earnings (1yr)
$74,992
68th percentile
Median Debt
$20,750
17% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28
Manageable
Sample Size
37
Adequate data

Analysis

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

University of Cincinnati-Main CampusOther aerospace, aeronautical and astronautical engineering programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Cincinnati-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus graduates earn $75k, placing them in the 68th percentile of all aerospace, aeronautical and astronautical engineering bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio

Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (5 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus$74,992$80,934$20,7500.28
Case Western Reserve University$83,639$79,428$26,4100.32
Ohio State University-Main Campus$72,062$80,463$25,8530.36
National Median$72,210—$25,0000.35

Other Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland
$64,671$83,639$26,410
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus
$12,859$72,062$25,853

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.