Analysis
Is a bachelor's in social sciences from Inter American University-Metro a sound investment when the earnings-to-debt equation relies entirely on national estimates? Based on comparable programs nationwide, graduates might expect around $37,459 in first-year earnings while carrying roughly $27,000 in debtβa 0.72 ratio that falls within reasonable territory for a bachelor's degree. However, this national debt figure dramatically overstates what Puerto Rico students typically face: other social sciences programs in the island report median debt of just $8,900, suggesting this estimate may be wildly off-base for the local context.
The earnings estimate of $37,459 matches the national median for social sciences bachelor's programs, but applying mainland salary expectations to Puerto Rico's labor market creates serious distortion. With two-thirds of students receiving Pell grants, this predominantly working-class student body is likely heading into an economy where actual starting salaries run considerably lower than U.S. averages, while the true debt burden remains unknown due to suppressed data.
Without actual outcomes data for this specific program, you're essentially flying blind. The national benchmarks used here may bear little resemblance to what graduates from this San Juan campus actually earn or owe, making it impossible to assess whether this program delivers value. Before committing, find graduates from this specific program and ask them directly about their job prospects and debt loads in Puerto Rico's economy.
Where Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Social Sciences bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,580 | $37,459* | β | $26,975* | β | |
| $40,890 | $61,612* | β | $47,010* | 0.76 | |
| $63,946 | $61,389* | $80,320 | $11,000* | 0.18 | |
| $12,643 | $57,538* | $79,100 | $20,559* | 0.36 | |
| $59,076 | $56,540* | $72,825 | $19,937* | 0.35 | |
| $19,000 | $56,221* | $42,471 | $25,805* | 0.46 | |
| National Median | β | $37,459* | β | $25,500* | 0.68 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social sciences graduates
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Sociologists
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
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 Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Metro, approximately 66% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 76 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.