Behavioral Sciences at East-West University

A $37,135 first-year salary slightly edges above the national median for behavioral sciences programs, placing East-West in the 66th percentile—a respectable position for graduates entering human services, research assistance, or counseling support roles. With an estimated $26,865 in debt (drawn from similar programs at comparable institutions), the 0.72 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment, particularly under income-driven plans. Given that 80% of students receive Pell grants, many graduates likely face additional financial pressures that make this debt level meaningful despite appearing reasonable on paper.

The challenge with behavioral sciences bachelor's degrees isn't unique to East-West: the field typically requires graduate education for professional licensure and higher earning potential. First-year earnings in the mid-$30,000s reflect entry-level positions that often serve as stepping stones rather than career destinations. Parents should understand that this degree may function as pre-graduate school preparation, meaning the financial picture extends beyond these initial figures.

The practical question: Can your family afford a bachelor's degree that performs at the national median while recognizing it may not be the terminal credential? If graduate school isn't in the plan, examine whether East-West's career services can connect graduates with Chicago's social services sector, where urban opportunities might exceed what these broader statistics capture.