Library Science and Administration at Ashford University

Ashford's Library Science program graduates earn well above the national average for this degree—hitting the 95th percentile nationally—yet still face a challenging financial picture. That $29,163 starting salary, while impressive relative to other library science programs, translates to under $15 per hour. The nearly $36,000 in median debt means graduates are carrying debt loads 23% higher than their first-year earnings, a concerning ratio for an entry-level salary in this range.

The earnings trajectory offers some relief: graduates see income grow to $33,499 by year four, a solid 15% increase that helps improve the debt-to-income picture over time. But even with that growth, these are modest wages for a four-year degree. The program's strong national showing reflects more on library science's overall low earnings than on exceptional outcomes here. With only 11 schools nationwide offering bachelor's degrees in this field, it's a niche credential in a profession that typically requires a master's degree for librarian positions.

For families considering this path, the core question is whether their student needs specifically this bachelor's degree or plans to continue to graduate school. If the goal is to work directly in libraries after graduation, most positions will be support roles at these wage levels. The debt load is manageable but will require careful budgeting on a modest income.