Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,552/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,552/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $39,369 | $20,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $36,437 | $22,000 |
Analysis
Ottawa University-Kansas City delivers weak financial returns that should give you pause. Your median debt of $21,500 leads to earnings of just $55,552 after ten years, creating a concerning debt-to-income ratio that limits your financial flexibility early in your career.
The school's strongest programs still underperform. Business Administration graduates earn only $39,369 annually while carrying $20,000 in debt, placing them well below market rates for business majors in the Kansas City metro area. Education majors fare even worse at $36,437 with $22,000 in debt, earnings that barely justify the investment given teacher salary scales in the region.
Your biggest risk here is paying private school prices for outcomes that don't match. With nearly half of students receiving aid, the school clearly struggles with affordability, yet the financial returns don't support the premium you'll pay over state universities in Kansas and Missouri.
This school works financially only if you're career-changing later in life and need the flexibility of evening or online programs, or if you receive substantial merit aid that drops your total cost significantly below the median debt levels. Traditional students seeking strong ROI should look at University of Kansas, Kansas State, or even University of Missouri-Kansas City for better value propositions.
The limited program diversity compounds the financial risk. With only two major earning tracks showing data, you have few options if your chosen field doesn't pan out, leaving you locked into underperforming career paths that don't justify your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ottawa University-Kansas City worth the cost compared to other schools?
Ottawa University-Kansas City graduates earn $55,552 annually after 10 years, which is below the national average for college graduates. With median debt around $21,500, the debt-to-income ratio is manageable but the overall return on investment lags behind larger state universities.
Which programs at Ottawa University-Kansas City have the best job prospects?
Business Administration graduates from Ottawa University-Kansas City earn around $39,369 annually, while Teacher Education graduates earn $36,437. Both figures are below national averages for these fields, making program choice less about high earning potential and more about career fit.
How much student debt do Ottawa University-Kansas City graduates typically have?
The median debt for Ottawa University-Kansas City graduates is $21,500, which is lower than many private colleges. However, this debt level represents about 39% of typical graduate earnings, requiring careful budgeting after graduation.
Should I attend Ottawa University-Kansas City if I want to maximize my earning potential?
Ottawa University-Kansas City is not the best choice for maximizing earnings, as graduate salaries are below national averages across programs. Consider this school if you value small class sizes and personal attention over high income potential.