Compare 13 Laser and Optical Engineering. programs in Ohio. Average earnings: $81,819.
The highest-earning Laser and Optical Engineering program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $24K earnings gap across 13 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand. Ohio's outcomes range from $67K to $92K, variation that tracks program quality over school reputation.
Case Western Reserve University's Laser and Optical Engineering program leads with graduates earning $91,504, but Ohio University-Main Campus follows close behind at $89,197 with 85% acceptance rates. The state average of $82K shows how accessible programs can compete with selective ones when program quality drives results.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Ohio State University graduates borrow $19,976 and face just a 4.2% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. Cleveland State offers the best family value with 8.8% combined burden, proving smart program choice beats prestige for long-term finances.
Highest program earnings: $91,504
Strong outcomes ($89,197) with 85% acceptance
4.2% payment burden | Excellent
8.8% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $91,504 | 52 | $24,000 | Excellent | $31,458 | Good | |
| #2 | $89,197 | 22 | $21,056 | Excellent | $23,508 | Good | |
| #3 | University Of ToledoPublic | $88,001 | 54 | $22,250 | Excellent | $19,243 | Good |
| #4 | $87,656 | 248 | $19,976 | Excellent | $25,868 | Good | |
| #5 | University Of DaytonPrivate | $87,086 | 54 | $23,250 | Excellent | $43,810 | Manageable |
| #6 | $86,825 | 39 | $23,250 | Excellent | $22,000 | Good | |
| #7 | $86,729 | 34 | $21,797 | Excellent | $16,998 | Good | |
| #8 | $85,592 | 132 | $21,250 | Excellent | $23,602 | Good | |
| #9 | $79,343 | 41 | $24,000 | Excellent | $16,900 | Good | |
| #10 | $78,729 | 64 | $22,750 | Excellent | $14,381 | Good | |
| #11 | Ohio Northern UniversityPrivate | $68,219 | 5 | $27,000 | Good | $32,246 | Challenging |
| #12 | Miami University-OxfordPublic | $67,660 | 32 | $23,000 | Excellent | $34,512 | Challenging |
| #13 | Cedarville UniversityPrivate | $67,101 | 17 | $20,937 | Excellent | $37,422 | Challenging |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
