Analysis
The financial picture here hinges entirely on what field graduates actually enter. Based on what peer programs in Ohio typically produce—around $36,800 in first-year earnings against an estimated $26,000 in debt—the numbers align closely with state and national norms for this degree. That 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio sits in reasonable territory, though it's worth noting that human development and family studies graduates often pursue careers in social services, education, or counseling, where earnings can remain modest even as experience accumulates.
What matters more than these baseline estimates is career trajectory. If your child plans to pursue graduate work in counseling, social work, or a related field—as many in this major do—the bachelor's degree functions as a stepping stone, and total educational debt becomes the real concern. If they're heading straight into entry-level human services roles, comparable programs suggest earnings in the mid-to-high $30,000s, which makes the estimated debt load manageable but leaves little cushion. The 43% Pell grant population indicates Antioch serves many students without family financial backup.
Given the limited data specific to Antioch's outcomes, look closely at what exact career support and field placement the program offers. With similar programs at Ohio University campuses reporting nearly $39,000 in first-year earnings, understanding where Antioch graduates specifically land—and whether those paths justify the investment—becomes essential before committing.
Where Antioch University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human development, family studies, bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Human Development, Family Studies, bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | $36,792* | — | $26,000* | — | |
| $6,178 | $38,973* | $40,855 | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| $6,178 | $38,973* | $40,855 | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| $6,178 | $38,973* | $40,855 | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| $6,178 | $38,973* | $40,855 | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| $13,746 | $38,973* | $40,855 | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| National Median | — | $33,543* | — | $25,000* | 0.75 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with human development, family studies, graduates
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Human Service Assistants
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
Childcare Workers
Nannies
Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other
Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other
Farm and Home Management Educators
Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Antioch University, approximately 43% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 12 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.