Median Earnings (1yr)
$22,878
95th percentile
60th percentile in New York
Median Debt
$16,248
At national median

Analysis

The numbers here tell an unusually consistent story: Bryant & Stratton's online Human Services certificate produces earnings and debt levels that exactly match both national and state medians—$22,878 and $16,248, respectively. While ranking in the 95th percentile nationally sounds impressive, it reflects how compressed earnings are across this field rather than exceptional outcomes. More telling is the 60th percentile ranking within New York, suggesting this program performs respectably but not remarkably among in-state alternatives.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 is manageable—graduates would owe less than a year's income—but the absolute earnings figure of $22,878 is sobering. That's barely above full-time minimum wage in many states, and the fact that 75% of students receive Pell grants means most families lack financial cushion if career advancement stalls. The program keeps debt relatively low (25th percentile nationally), which matters given the modest income potential.

For families specifically interested in human services work, this online certificate offers convenient access to credentials without excessive debt. However, the earnings ceiling is real and immediate. Parents should verify whether this certificate meets licensing requirements for their child's intended career path and consider whether a more comprehensive degree might open higher-paying roles over time. At this price point and earnings level, every dollar of debt carries weight.

Where Bryant & Stratton College-Online Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all human services certificate's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Bryant & Stratton College-Online graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in New York

Human Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in New York (10 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Bryant & Stratton College-OnlineOrchard Park$15,891$22,878—$16,2480.71
Bryant & Stratton College-BuffaloBuffalo$19,126$22,878—$16,2480.71
National Median—$22,878—$16,2480.71

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with human services graduates

Social and Community Service Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.

$78,240/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Social and Human Service Assistants

Assist other social and human service providers in providing client services in a wide variety of fields, such as psychology, rehabilitation, or social work, including support for families. May assist clients in identifying and obtaining available benefits and social and community services. May assist social workers with developing, organizing, and conducting programs to prevent and resolve problems relevant to substance abuse, human relationships, rehabilitation, or dependent care.

$45,120/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other

All community and social service specialists not listed separately.

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Bryant & Stratton College-Online, approximately 75% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 30 graduates with reported earnings and 81 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.