Finance and Financial Management Services at University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

University of Cincinnati's finance program delivers solid returns at a price point that makes sense. With first-year earnings of $59,067 and debt of just $21,549, graduates face a debt burden of only 36% of their starting salary—one of the most manageable ratios you'll find for this major. That's roughly $4,000 less debt than the Ohio median while still earning competitively.

The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Ohio's 43 finance programs, landing behind flagship schools like Ohio State ($65,181) and Miami University ($71,203) but still clearing the state median. Nationally, it performs even better at the 71st percentile, suggesting Cincinnati offers particularly good value when you consider its 88% admission rate makes it accessible to a wide range of students. The 16% earnings growth to $68,220 by year four shows graduates are advancing, not stagnating.

The gap to top Ohio programs is real—about $6,000-12,000 in starting salary—but Cincinnati's lower debt load narrows that difference considerably. For a student who can get into more selective programs, they might earn more elsewhere. But for most families, especially those looking at in-state options, this program delivers strong job market outcomes without the financial strain that often accompanies business degrees. The numbers work.