I tell every college graduate that asks me for REI advice that I wish I'd bought an owner occupy duplex when I first had income (if only I could go back in time) out of college all those years ago.  

I am in need of a contractor in the college park area.

I am in need of a contractor in the college park area.

I am in need of a contractor in the college park area.

I graduate college and start my full time job in a few months and I anticipate moving out of my parents after buying and rehabbing a duplex/triplex in the Columbus, OH area.

:)A college degree is still worthwhile to have, as is a W-2 job, at lest in the beginning, so stay the course.  

If you need comps sent to you let me know I'm a realtor in the area and can email you recent sales if it will help you ...Jeffrey HubertEWM Realty International

Candidly, if you need to ask this question you need to be seeking real-world help in the form of a certified engineer or competent contractor.The resources you're looking for start in the international residential code book.

I'm just not sure where a college degree comes into play.

What you want to find out are rental price trends, and although I can't speak for outside the city, I can say with confidence that rent prices in many neighborhoods in the city have been increasing at least since 2007 when I was first introduced to the rental market as a college student.I'd highly recommend speaking with a manager at local rental brokerages.