Human Development, Family Studies, at Franciscan University of Steubenville

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 positions this program in reasonably manageable territory, particularly when peer programs in Ohio suggest similar first-year earnings around $36,800. That initial salary sits just above the national median for human development degrees and matches the state typical outcome. With estimated debt at $26,000—roughly aligned with national norms for this field—graduates would be looking at monthly payments around $290 on a standard repayment plan, consuming about 9% of gross monthly income.

The challenge is that we're working entirely with estimates here, derived from comparable Ohio programs and national benchmarks for similar schools. The actual outcomes for Franciscan's specific graduates could differ meaningfully. What we can say is that several Ohio University campuses report actual earnings near $39,000 for their human development programs, suggesting the state estimate isn't unrealistic. Still, the human development field tends toward helping professions with modest early-career pay, and progression potential varies dramatically depending on whether graduates pursue clinical credentials, education roles, or community services.

For families investing in this particular program, the estimated numbers suggest workable debt rather than a crisis—but they're betting on Franciscan delivering outcomes consistent with other Ohio programs without seeing this school's actual track record. If your child is certain about this field and values Franciscan's distinctive mission, the projected debt burden appears survivable. But recognize you're making this decision without knowing whether these graduates actually achieve typical state outcomes or fall short.