Behavioral Sciences at Athens State University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72 is relatively manageable for a bachelor's degree, but the full picture here requires looking beyond that single number. Based on national data from similar behavioral sciences programs, first-year earnings around $35,410 translate to about $2,950 monthly before taxes—tight for someone facing $25,500 in student loans. These estimates come from peer institutions nationally since Athens State's graduate sample is too small for the DOE to publish specific outcomes, which means we're working with educated guesses rather than this school's actual track record.

The behavioral sciences field typically serves as a stepping stone to graduate work or entry-level social services roles, and that's reflected in the modest starting salary. With 42% of students receiving Pell grants, many families at Athens State are relying on this degree to deliver economic mobility, but the earnings trajectory after that first year matters enormously. If graduates stay in direct-service roles without additional credentials, that $35,000 salary may not grow quickly enough to justify even moderate debt.

Before committing, find out where Athens State's behavioral sciences graduates actually land—not just job titles, but whether they're advancing to graduate programs with funding or stuck in positions that require a master's degree they can't yet afford. The estimated figures suggest a workable starting point, but only if this degree opens doors beyond that first year.