Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences at Delta State University

Delta State's Family and Consumer Sciences program produces earnings that lag the national median by about $2,800 annually, but here's the crucial context: it actually sits at the 60th percentile among Mississippi's three programs offering this degree. The $28,918 first-year salary is also the state median, meaning this is essentially the baseline outcome for this field in Mississippi.

The debt load of $26,979 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.93—graduates owe roughly what they'll earn in their first year. That's a reasonable starting point for a helping profession, though the concern is whether earnings will grow meaningfully over time. The 100% admission rate and high Pell Grant enrollment (43%) suggest Delta State serves many first-generation and lower-income students who might not have multiple program options.

For Mississippi families, this represents a middle-of-the-road investment in a field with inherently modest starting salaries. The program won't produce exceptional earnings, but it delivers results consistent with the state's economic reality at a debt level that's manageable. The key question is career trajectory: if your child is passionate about family services, education, or community health, this provides accessible entry. If they're seeking higher earning potential, the numbers suggest looking at different fields entirely rather than different schools within this major.