Analysis
University of Cincinnati's biomedical engineering program launches graduates into six-figure territory faster than most competitors. With first-year earnings of $72,166 and a trajectory that reaches $85,695 by year four, this program outperforms 81% of biomedical engineering programs nationwide. Within Ohio, it ranks second only to Case Western among in-state options—a notable achievement for a school with an 88% acceptance rate. The $23,250 median debt translates to a highly manageable 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates pay back roughly four months of salary.
The 19% earnings growth over the first four years reflects biomedical engineering's strong career progression, though it's worth noting this is a field where graduate degrees often unlock higher earning potential. Cincinnati's program appears particularly well-connected to the region's medical device and healthcare industries, which likely explains its strong placement outcomes despite being more accessible than elite alternatives like Case Western.
For families prioritizing return on investment, this represents one of Ohio's best values in biomedical engineering. Your child gets competitive earning power at roughly one-third the debt load of many private alternatives, with outcomes that rival far more selective programs.
Where University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biomedical/medical 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 | $72,166 | $85,695 | +19% |
| Case Western Reserve University | $78,815 | $88,056 | +12% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $65,469 | $81,989 | +25% |
| University of Toledo | $69,711 | $74,617 | +7% |
| Wright State University-Main Campus | $45,570 | $73,018 | +60% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Biomedical/Medical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,570 | $72,166 | $85,695 | $23,250 | 0.32 | |
| $64,671 | $78,815 | $88,056 | $23,250 | 0.29 | |
| $12,377 | $69,711 | $74,617 | $19,750 | 0.28 | |
| $12,859 | $65,469 | $81,989 | $23,125 | 0.35 | |
| $12,799 | $61,226 | $69,004 | $23,246 | 0.38 | |
| $17,809 | $58,914 | — | $27,000 | 0.46 | |
| National Median | — | $64,660 | — | $23,246 | 0.36 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biomedical/medical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 75 graduates with reported earnings and 79 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.