Analysis
UC's neuroscience program stands out in Ohio with above-median earnings that rank in the 60th percentile statewide—notably outperforming Ohio State's outcomes despite the Buckeyes' stronger reputation. The real story unfolds after graduation: first-year earnings of $33,094 jump 52% to just over $50,000 by year four, suggesting graduates successfully transition into higher-paying lab technician roles, research positions, or graduate programs that boost career trajectories. The $25,000 in typical debt sits comfortably below both state and national averages.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76 means graduates owe less than their first-year salary—manageable territory, especially given the strong earnings growth. That said, the modest starting salary reflects what most neuroscience bachelor's holders face: entry-level positions that often require further education for substantial advancement. The program's moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonable confidence in these numbers without raising concerns about outliers skewing results.
For parents, this program offers solid value if your student plans to work immediately after graduation or pursue graduate school after gaining research experience. The combination of below-average debt and above-average state performance makes UC a sensible choice, particularly compared to pricier Ohio options. Just ensure your student understands that neuroscience careers typically reward those who push beyond the bachelor's degree.
Where University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all neurobiology and neurosciences 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 | $33,094 | $50,218 | +52% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $39,880 | $85,126 | +113% |
| Vanderbilt University | $25,830 | $78,554 | +204% |
| Brigham Young University | $27,986 | $73,566 | +163% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $29,638 | $53,393 | +80% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Neurobiology and Neurosciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,570 | $33,094 | $50,218 | $25,000 | 0.76 | |
| $64,646 | $34,593 | — | — | — | |
| $59,550 | $29,942 | — | $23,250 | 0.78 | |
| $12,859 | $29,638 | $53,393 | $22,286 | 0.75 | |
| National Median | — | $31,687 | — | $22,936 | 0.72 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with neurobiology and neurosciences graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Biological Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
Bioinformatics Scientists
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Geneticists
Biologists
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 64 graduates with reported earnings and 85 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.