Analysis
Based on comparable public health programs nationwide, University of New England graduates might expect around $37,500 in first-year earnings against an estimated $27,000 in debtβa 0.72 ratio that falls within manageable territory. That debt load translates to roughly $300 in monthly payments under standard repayment, claiming about 10% of gross income. However, with only two public health bachelor's programs in Maine and no reported outcomes data from either, you're navigating without the local benchmarks that would show how Maine's specific job market rewards this degree.
The broader picture for public health bachelor's degrees shows considerable variation nationally. Top-quartile programs produce first-year earnings around $42,000, suggesting that outcomes depend heavily on factors like internship networks, geographic mobility, and whether graduates pursue clinical versus administrative tracks. University of New England's 89% admission rate and low Pell grant enrollment (12%) paint a picture of a relatively selective private institution serving an advantaged student body, which may influence career placement support but doesn't guarantee stronger-than-average outcomes in this field.
For families considering this investment, the estimated numbers suggest neither exceptional returns nor alarming debt levels, but remember these figures are extrapolated from peer programs elsewhere. Before committing, you'll want direct answers from UNE about actual graduate placement rates, typical employers, and whether most students stay in Maine or relocate to stronger public health markets like Boston.
Where University of New England Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all public health bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Public Health bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $42,550 | $37,548* | β | $27,000* | β | |
| β | $99,671* | β | $30,500* | 0.31 | |
| $9,228 | $76,451* | β | β* | β | |
| $68,230 | $75,909* | $61,595 | $11,760* | 0.15 | |
| $8,050 | $74,771* | $82,190 | $27,000* | 0.36 | |
| $14,694 | $59,330* | $60,142 | $30,750* | 0.52 | |
| National Median | β | $37,548* | β | $26,000* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with public health graduates
Physicists
Medical and Health Services Managers
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Genetic Counselors
Epidemiologists
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Climate Change Policy Analysts
Environmental Restoration Planners
Industrial Ecologists
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
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 New England, approximately 12% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 213 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.