Human Development, Family Studies, at Brigham Young University-Idaho

At just over $21,000 annually, BYU-Idaho's Human Development program produces graduates earning 36% below the state median and nearly $13,000 less than University of Idaho graduates in the same field. Despite low debt of $12,250—less than half the national average—these earnings are among the weakest in the country, ranking in the 5th percentile nationally. Even within Idaho's limited options, this program sits in just the 25th percentile.

The troubling pattern here isn't stagnation—it's decline. Graduates actually earn slightly less four years out than in their first year, suggesting this degree struggles to open doors to career advancement. While the debt burden stays manageable thanks to BYU-Idaho's relatively low costs, earning barely above minimum wage with a bachelor's degree creates a difficult financial reality, even with modest loans.

For families considering this path, the numbers suggest significant opportunity cost. If your student is drawn to family studies or child development, University of Idaho's program delivers 60% higher earnings for what will likely be comparable in-state tuition once BYU-Idaho's non-LDS rates are factored in. This is one case where the degree alone—regardless of where it's earned—may not justify the investment unless it's specifically preparing for graduate school or mission-oriented work where salary isn't the primary concern.