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 delivers weak financial returns with a median salary of $55,552 ten years after graduation paired with typical debt loads of $21,500. The numbers get worse when you examine specific programs.
Business Administration graduates earn just $39,369 annually despite carrying $20,000 in debt, creating a particularly poor return on investment. Teacher Education majors face an even tougher financial picture at $36,437 in median earnings with $22,000 in debt. Both flagship programs produce earnings well below the national average for college graduates.
The school's online format creates additional risk since employers may discount the degree's value compared to traditional campus programs. You're paying private school tuition for outcomes that trail many community college programs.
Only 29.55% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited scholarship opportunities or need-based assistance. This means most students pay close to full price for subpar returns.
Ottawa University-Online might work for you if you need maximum scheduling flexibility and already have career advancement lined up that requires any bachelor's degree. Military personnel using education benefits could also justify the cost since they're not paying out of pocket.
Look elsewhere if you're career-switching, need strong earning potential to justify debt, or want employers to view your degree favorably. The combination of low earnings, limited aid, and potential employer skepticism about online credentials makes this a risky financial choice for most students.
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.