Analysis
In Ohio's security science field, where only a handful of programs report outcomes, peer data suggests first-year earnings around $44,000—slightly above the national median for this credential. The University of Northwestern Ohio appears to track with this state pattern, based on comparable programs, though without school-specific data, it's difficult to know if their particular curriculum or industry connections produce better or worse outcomes than the state average.
The estimated $27,000 debt load creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first-year salary. That's workable territory for a bachelor's degree, particularly in a technical field with clear career pathways. The challenge is that security programs vary significantly in focus—some emphasize cybersecurity (which tends to pay more), others physical security or emergency management (which may start lower). Without knowing where Northwestern Ohio's program concentrates its curriculum, you're estimating based on an average that may not reflect their specific approach.
The fact that roughly one-third of students receive Pell grants suggests the school serves price-conscious families, which makes the debt estimate more meaningful—these aren't students with substantial family support to fall back on. Before committing, nail down what specific security careers this program prepares students for and whether those roles actually exist in your region, because a $44,000 starting salary only works if the job materializes.
Where University of Northwestern Ohio Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all security science and technology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Security Science and Technology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,930 | $43,918* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $7,278 | $43,918* | — | —* | — | |
| $7,278 | $43,918* | — | —* | — | |
| $17,809 | $43,918* | — | —* | — | |
| $32,400 | $38,994* | — | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| National Median | — | $39,252* | — | $25,000* | 0.64 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with security science and technology graduates
Information Security Analysts
Geographers
Financial Examiners
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Accountants and Auditors
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Intelligence Analysts
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Customs and Border Protection Officers
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 Northwestern Ohio, approximately 32% 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 median of 4 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.