Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies at Dartmouth College

The small sample size here matters—with fewer than 30 graduates, a few career choices can dramatically skew the numbers. But there's a troubling pattern: Dartmouth's ethnic studies graduates actually earn *less* than the national median for this major ($31,967 vs. $31,459), and they trail significantly behind the University of New Hampshire's $40,720. For a school with a 6% admission rate and 1533 average SAT, underperforming the state flagship should raise questions about how well this program prepares students for immediate career success.

The debt picture looks better at first glance—$15,157 is manageable—but that's because Dartmouth's substantial financial aid brings debt down, not because of strong earnings. The program ranks in just the 40th percentile for earnings among New Hampshire's three schools offering this degree. Meanwhile, comparable programs at less selective institutions often produce similar or better financial outcomes.

If your child is passionate about this field and has their heart set on Dartmouth, the modest debt won't derail their financial future. But understand you're paying for the Dartmouth credential and experience, not for superior earning potential in this particular major. Students planning graduate school or careers in nonprofits may find the network valuable; those seeking immediate financial returns should look carefully at UNH's outcomes or consider different majors at Dartmouth that better leverage the institution's reputation.