Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies at Assumption University

Based on comparable programs in Massachusetts, this bachelor's degree appears positioned near the middle of the state's earnings range—the estimated $40,120 first-year salary matches both the state median and what Amherst College graduates reportedly earn, while sitting well above the $31,459 national median for this field. The estimated $21,613 in debt is also notably lower than both the state median ($24,226) and national median ($23,000) for this major.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54 suggests manageable repayment, with debt representing just over half of first-year income. However, these estimates are drawn from a small pool of similar programs in Massachusetts—only five schools with earnings data and four with debt data—meaning actual outcomes for Assumption graduates could vary significantly. The field itself tends toward modest early earnings nationally, so students genuinely passionate about cultural studies, advocacy work, or community organizing may find this acceptable, but those expecting rapid salary growth should look closely at career paths.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether your child has specific career plans that leverage this degree. The estimated outcomes suggest reasonable debt for a humanities degree, but the small sample size and the field's generally modest earnings trajectory mean you're making this decision with limited visibility into what Assumption specifically delivers. If your child is certain about this path, the debt level doesn't present an immediate red flag—but there's real uncertainty here that warrants honest conversations about backup plans and career strategy.