Analysis
Comparable social sciences programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $36,000 against estimated debt of $27,000—a manageable 0.74 debt-to-earnings ratio that falls within the range financial aid experts consider sustainable. For context, the strongest program in Massachusetts (Boston University) reports $48,000 in first-year earnings, while the lowest reports under $23,000, placing Curry's estimated outcomes near the middle of the state's range. The debt figure aligns closely with both state and national medians for social sciences degrees.
What makes this harder to evaluate is the uncertainty inherent in estimates drawn from peer institutions rather than Curry's actual graduate outcomes. The 92% admission rate and accessibility to students from diverse economic backgrounds (28% receive Pell grants) suggest Curry serves a different population than highly selective competitors, which could affect career trajectories in ways these estimates don't capture. Social sciences degrees typically require graduate education for higher earnings potential, so these first-year figures may understate long-term value while also not accounting for students who continue their education immediately.
The practical question: Can your child reasonably manage $27,000 in debt on $36,000 in income while potentially saving for graduate school? The monthly payment would be roughly $300 for ten years—tight but workable if they're employed full-time in their field. Given the estimation uncertainty, focus your research on Curry's career services strength, graduate school placement rates, and internship networks specific to your child's intended career path within social sciences.
Where Curry College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Social Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $46,220 | $36,279* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $65,168 | $48,243* | $61,389 | —* | — | |
| $64,142 | $22,829* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $36,279* | — | $25,500* | 0.70 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social sciences graduates
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 Curry College, approximately 28% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 33 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.