Philosophy at Assumption University

Philosophy programs in Massachusetts cluster tightly around $40,000 in first-year earnings, and Assumption's estimated outcomes sit right at that mark—matching the state median and landing well above the national figure of $31,652. Based on similar programs at private institutions, graduates here likely carry around $23,000 in debt, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 that's manageable by liberal arts standards.

The real question is whether Assumption delivers something distinctive that justifies choosing it over the state's flagships or more selective privates. Boston College philosophy graduates earn about $7,000 more their first year out, while UMass-Boston comes in slightly lower at around $36,500—but with considerably less debt for in-state students. Assumption's 87% admission rate suggests it's accessible, though its low Pell enrollment (19%) indicates the student body skews toward families who can afford private tuition without significant aid.

For philosophy specifically, peer programs suggest outcomes are steady rather than spectacular. The debt load is reasonable relative to earnings, but there's limited upside: most philosophy majors aren't breaking into high-paying fields immediately after graduation. If your student is deeply committed to the major and values Assumption's campus environment or specific faculty, the numbers won't sink them. But if they're exploring philosophy casually or could access a comparable education at lower cost, the state's public options deserve serious consideration.