Human Services at Fisher College

Fisher College's Human Services program trails most Massachusetts alternatives by a significant margin. While graduates earn $35,289 in their first year—roughly on par with the national average—they're landing in the bottom quarter of Massachusetts programs where the state median sits at $45,641. That's a $10,000 annual gap compared to what graduates from Fitchburg State or Northeastern achieve right out of college. With nearly half the student body on Pell grants, this earnings shortfall hits families who can least afford it.

The debt load of $29,935 is actually slightly below the state median, which helps moderate the financial risk. More encouraging is the earnings trajectory: graduates see a 27% jump by year four, reaching $44,634. That growth rate outpaces typical Human Services programs and eventually brings earnings closer to state norms. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.85 suggests manageable repayment for those who stick with the field.

For parents considering this program, the core question is whether the premium of attending Fisher—with its Boston location and personalized environment—justifies starting $10,000 behind state school graduates. The moderate debt and solid earnings growth offer a path to financial stability, but families should understand they're accepting a slower start than available at nearby public options like Fitchburg State, which delivers stronger initial outcomes at similar debt levels.