Analysis
Florida Atlantic University's social work program outearns three-quarters of similar programs nationally while keeping debt nearly 20% below the national median—a combination that's hard to find in this field. At just over $21,000 in debt against nearly $40,000 in starting earnings, graduates face a manageable debt load with a ratio of 0.53, meaning they could theoretically pay off loans in about six months of gross earnings. Among Florida's 14 social work programs, FAU ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, trailing only FIU and USF among the state's major universities.
The earnings trajectory is modest but stable, growing from $39,912 to $41,339 over four years—typical for social work, where compensation increases tend to come from credential advancement rather than time in field. What matters more here is the entry point: starting nearly $3,500 above Florida's median for the field gives graduates breathing room in their early career years.
For families concerned about return on investment in a helping profession, this program demonstrates you don't have to sacrifice financial practicality to enter social work. The combination of below-average debt and above-average earnings in a profession known for modest pay makes FAU a smart choice for students committed to this career path.
Where Florida Atlantic University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Florida Atlantic University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Atlantic University | $39,912 | $41,339 | +4% |
| Florida State University | $32,604 | $44,546 | +37% |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | $36,407 | $43,345 | +19% |
| University of South Florida | $37,458 | $40,510 | +8% |
| University of Central Florida | $35,358 | $40,284 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Social Work bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (14 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton | $4,879 | $39,912 | $41,339 | $21,101 | 0.53 |
 Florida International UniversityMiami | $6,565 | $41,626 | $37,464 | $18,800 | 0.45 |
 University of South FloridaTampa | $6,410 | $37,458 | $40,510 | $21,875 | 0.58 |
 University of West FloridaPensacola | $6,360 | $36,573 | $36,233 | $17,373 | 0.48 |
 Florida Gulf Coast UniversityFort Myers | $6,118 | $36,407 | $43,345 | $18,837 | 0.52 |
 University of Central FloridaOrlando | $6,368 | $35,358 | $40,284 | $22,375 | 0.63 |
| National Median | — | $37,296 | — | $26,362 | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social work graduates
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Marriage and Family Therapists
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Healthcare Social Workers
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Social Workers, All Other
Counselors, All Other
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 Florida Atlantic University, approximately 35% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 144 graduates with reported earnings and 222 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.