Social Work at Georgia State University

Georgia State's social work program starts graduates at $29,609—well below the national median but slightly above what most Georgia social work programs deliver. Ranking in the 60th percentile statewide means you're doing better than half your in-state competitors, though that's a low bar: even the University of Georgia, the state's top performer, only reaches $32,534. The concerning part is that nationally, this program ranks in the bottom 5%, suggesting Georgia's social work market as a whole pays less than most states.

The debt picture compounds the challenge. With $30,533 in loans at graduation, students face a debt-to-earnings ratio just over 1:1 in that first year—manageable only because earnings jump 50% by year four to $44,442. That growth trajectory is the program's strongest selling point, as it suggests social workers who stick with the field see meaningful salary progression. Still, even at the four-year mark, earnings remain modest for someone carrying $30,000 in student debt.

For parents, the key question is whether your child is committed to social work specifically and willing to navigate lean early years. The program serves a heavily Pell-eligible student body well, keeping debt relatively controlled compared to national averages. But if your child is exploring social work as one of several options, they should understand that Georgia's market offers limited upside compared to other states, even with strong in-state performance.