Human Development, Family Studies, at Community College of Allegheny County

Earning around $28,000 right after graduation puts this program above the national median but notably below Pennsylvania's typical outcomes for family studies associates. Among the 17 schools offering this program in Pennsylvania, Community College of Allegheny County lands near the 40th percentile—meaning most comparable programs in the state produce stronger earnings. The advantage here is manageable debt: at $9,651, students borrow roughly half what's typical both nationally and in Pennsylvania, resulting in a debt load that's only about 4 months of gross income.

The small sample size (fewer than 30 graduates) means these numbers might not hold steady from year to year, and the slight earnings dip between years one and four suggests this credential may not lead to clear advancement opportunities. For a parent, the key question is whether this associate's degree serves as a stepping stone to a bachelor's or directly to employment. At this earnings level—roughly $14 per hour—it's a modest starting point for either path.

If your child plans to continue their education, the low debt makes this an affordable launch pad. If they're entering the workforce immediately, understand that Pennsylvania offers family studies programs with better earning potential, though likely at higher cost. The light debt burden is this program's strongest selling point.