Human Development, Family Studies, at American Public University System

American Public University System's Human Development program costs significantly more than similar programs while delivering shrinking returns. With $36,275 in median debt—nearly $11,000 above the national median and $6,000 above the state average—graduates face the highest debt burden among West Virginia's three programs in this field. That might be justifiable if earnings stayed strong, but they don't: after an acceptable first-year salary of $34,347, median earnings drop to $31,914 by year four, a 7% decline that leaves graduates earning less than they did starting out.

This backward trajectory is particularly troubling given the debt load. While the program ranks slightly above average nationally (58th percentile) and in West Virginia (60th percentile) for initial earnings, those rankings don't account for the unusual earnings decline or the outsized debt. Compare this to West Virginia University's program, which produces similar outcomes with presumably lower in-state tuition costs for state residents.

For families considering this online program, the math doesn't favor it. A debt-to-earnings ratio above 1.0, combined with declining wages over time, suggests graduates will struggle with loan payments while their career momentum stalls. Unless your student has specific reasons for choosing this program—like needing the flexibility of online coursework while working full-time—West Virginia's traditional universities offer better value in this field.