Social Sciences at Lesley University

Massachusetts social sciences graduates typically earn far more than what comparable programs nationally suggest for Lesley—the state median of $56,540 dwarfs the estimated $37,459 first-year figure derived from peer programs nationwide. That's a $19,000 gap, raising real questions about whether this program delivers the same career traction as other options in the state. While the estimated debt load of roughly $27,000 isn't catastrophic on its own, it looks less manageable when paired with earnings that fall so far below both the state benchmark and what students might expect from a Boston-area credential.

The 0.72 debt-to-earnings ratio based on these estimates suggests a year's salary would nearly cover the debt—not terrible by national standards where social sciences programs often produce similar ratios. But context matters: you're paying for a degree in one of the country's most expensive metro areas, where comparable programs produce substantially higher outcomes. The admissions selectivity (94% acceptance rate) and limited graduate cohort size (which triggered the data suppression) should factor into your calculus about network effects and competitive positioning.

If your child is committed to social sciences at Lesley specifically, understand you're likely betting on outcomes well below what the Massachusetts market typically provides for this degree. Compare closely with actual outcomes from state universities or other Boston-area schools before committing.