Public Health at University of Georgia

University of Georgia's public health program costs students less while delivering more than most alternatives in the state. With median debt of $21,500—roughly $6,000 below the state average—graduates still earn $57,204 by year four, placing this program solidly in the middle of Georgia's public health offerings despite the lower price tag.

The 45% earnings growth from year one to year four stands out. While the starting salary of $39,534 might feel modest for a flagship university graduate, the trajectory suggests graduates are gaining traction quickly, moving well past both state and national medians by mid-career. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54 means graduates owe about half their first-year salary—manageable territory for a public health degree, where starting salaries typically lag other health fields.

The real value here is graduating from UGA's selective program (37% admission rate) without taking on the debt load common at other Georgia schools. You're essentially getting above-average outcomes at a below-average price point. Only Kennesaw State shows meaningfully higher earnings among state competitors, but likely at a higher debt cost. For families concerned about return on investment in public health—a field known more for mission than money—this represents a relatively safe bet within the state system.