Human Services at Bryant & Stratton College-Wauwatosa

This certificate program posts identical earnings to the national median at $22,878, but its 95th percentile national ranking reveals an important context: most Human Services certificate programs nationally produce shockingly low earnings. Within Wisconsin's small market of just three schools, this program sits at the 60th percentile—solidly middle-of-the-pack locally, even while appearing exceptional nationally.

The $16,248 debt load translates to a 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe roughly 8-9 months of their first-year salary. For a certificate program serving a 57% Pell-eligible population, this is a meaningful financial burden, especially given that $22,878 annually ($11/hour full-time) barely exceeds Wisconsin's minimum wage earnings. The 25th percentile debt ranking (meaning 75% of programs nationally carry more debt) offers some relief, but it doesn't change the fundamental math: these are poverty-level wages for someone now carrying student debt.

For families considering this path, understand that you're looking at entry-level social service wages that may require public assistance supplements. If your student is passionate about human services work, this certificate could provide credentials for foot-in-the-door positions, but be realistic about the immediate financial constraints. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests consistent outcomes rather than outliers. The debt is manageable compared to alternatives, but only if you're prepared for the income reality that comes with it.