Analysis
Teaching credentials in Ohio face a challenging economic reality, and Wright State's Education bachelor's appears to follow that pattern. Based on comparable programs across the state, graduates can expect to earn around $37,000 in their first year—right at the median for Ohio education programs but below the national average. The estimated $24,000 in debt is actually lighter than typical, both compared to peer programs in Ohio (which average $27,000) and nationally (where education majors typically carry $26,500). That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65 is manageable, especially for a field where salaries tend to grow steadily through the first decade as teachers move up district pay scales.
The real question is whether teaching itself is the right investment, not whether Wright State delivers value within that field. The first-year earnings here match what Kent State and other credible Ohio programs produce, suggesting the program prepares graduates adequately for state teaching positions. The lighter debt load actually works in your child's favor compared to alternatives. If your child is genuinely committed to teaching—understanding the starting salary realities and long-term career trajectory—Wright State offers a more affordable path than many competitors. But if they're uncertain about the profession, that $37,000 starting point won't leave much room to pivot or manage debt comfortably.
Where Wright State University-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all education bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Education bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,188 | $37,193* | — | $24,333* | — | |
| $49,100 | $37,978* | $45,762 | $27,000* | 0.71 | |
| $12,846 | $37,370* | $36,833 | $30,782* | 0.82 | |
| $30,962 | $37,015* | $35,768 | $27,000* | 0.73 | |
| $33,628 | $35,895* | $40,411 | $27,000* | 0.75 | |
| National Median | — | $38,660* | — | $26,522* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with education graduates
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 Wright State University-Main Campus, approximately 33% 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.