Human Services at Bryant & Stratton College-Parma

This certificate occupies an unusual position: graduates earn exactly the national median at $22,878, yet the program ranks in the 95th percentile nationally. That seeming contradiction reveals something important about human services certificates—most programs produce significantly lower earnings, making even modest outcomes relatively impressive. Within Ohio, though, this sits at the median among the state's three programs, so it's neither the best nor worst local option.

The $16,248 in median debt translates to a 0.71 ratio against first-year earnings—manageable but requiring careful planning. A graduate earning $22,878 faces roughly $180 monthly in standard loan payments, which takes a meaningful bite from an annual gross income under $2,000 per month. With 68% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are already financially stretched, making that debt load particularly consequential.

For families considering this program, the key question is trajectory: human services work often requires additional credentials or experience to advance beyond entry-level pay. If this certificate serves as a stepping stone toward a bachelor's degree or specialized certification, the investment could make sense. If it's intended as a terminal credential, parents should verify what jobs realistically pay in their local market and whether $23,000 annually supports independent living in their area.