Social Sciences at Gardner-Webb University

A $27,000 debt load for a bachelor's degree is relatively manageable—the national median for social sciences programs sits at $25,500, so this estimate tracks closely with what most students carry. The projected first-year earnings of $38,693 align almost exactly with North Carolina's median for similar programs, suggesting Gardner-Webb delivers typical outcomes for the state. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70, graduates would theoretically owe less than a year's salary, which falls within a workable range for loan repayment.

The challenge lies in what these estimates don't tell us. While the figures suggest parity with peer programs, Gardner-Webb's actual graduate outcomes remain suppressed due to small sample sizes. That means we're working with approximations rather than the school's track record. The modest admission rate and Pell grant percentage indicate an accessible institution, but without reported earnings data, there's no way to know whether Gardner-Webb's specific approach to social sciences—its curriculum, faculty connections, or regional employer relationships—adds value beyond what the state average suggests.

For families weighing this program, the estimated numbers point to a reasonable financial proposition if your student is committed to social sciences and values Gardner-Webb's environment. Just recognize you're making this decision with incomplete information about how this particular program's graduates actually fare in the job market.