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-Online gives you a mixed financial picture, and the split runs right down the middle of what you study. Ten-year median earnings sit at $55,552, but that figure sits well above what the two listed bachelor's programs actually produce early on. That gap tells you the school's overall number is carried by graduates in fields not broken out here, so don't assume your specific major will land you at the median.
Business Administration is the stronger of the two tracked bachelor's programs, but "stronger" is relative. It pays about $39,369 against $20,000 in debt. That's a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio, and business gives you a wider range of employers in the Overland Park and Kansas City area than most fields.
Teacher Education is the weaker bet financially. You earn less, roughly $36,437, while carrying more debt at $22,000. Teaching salaries are capped by public school pay scales, so the ceiling here is low and predictable. If you already want to teach, the numbers are livable. if you're choosing a major to maximize return, this isn't it.
The main financial risk is that both listed bachelor's programs start you under $40,000. Median debt of $21,500 is moderate, but on a starting salary in the high $30,000s, repayment eats a real share of your income for years.
This school fits you if you're a working adult who needs online flexibility, already have a career direction, and are studying business. Look elsewhere if you're planning to teach and expect the degree to pay for itself quickly, or if you'd take on debt near the median without a clear job lined up. Only about 29.55% of students receive Pell Grants, so budget on the assumption you'll finance most of the cost yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ottawa University-Online worth the cost compared to other schools?
Ottawa University-Online graduates earn $55,552 annually ten years after enrollment, which is below the national average for college graduates. With median debt of $21,500, the return on investment is moderate but not exceptional compared to other online programs.
Which Ottawa University-Online programs have the best job prospects?
Business Administration and Management graduates from Ottawa University-Online earn around $39,369 annually, while Teacher Education graduates earn about $36,437. Both figures are relatively low compared to national averages for these fields.
How much student debt do Ottawa University-Online graduates typically have?
Ottawa University-Online graduates carry a median debt of $21,500, which is manageable compared to many schools. However, given the lower earning potential, graduates may still face challenges paying off loans quickly.
Should I choose Ottawa University-Online for business or education degrees?
Ottawa University-Online's business and education programs lead to below-average salaries in their respective fields. Consider whether the convenience of online learning justifies the lower earning potential compared to other programs or schools.