Behavioral Sciences at Metropolitan State University of Denver

A bachelor's in behavioral sciences through Metropolitan State University of Denver comes with estimated costs and earnings that warrant careful consideration. Comparable programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $35,400 with debt near $25,500—a 0.72 ratio that's manageable on paper but tight for someone navigating Denver's cost of living on an entry-level salary. The four-year earnings figure of $40,000 shows modest growth, which is typical for this field but may not provide the financial cushion anxious parents hope for.

The challenge here isn't just the numbers—it's what they represent. Behavioral sciences degrees often serve as stepping stones to graduate programs in counseling, social work, or related fields where the real earning potential lies. If your child plans to stop at the bachelor's level, peer programs suggest they'll be competing for positions that pay modestly while carrying debt that demands roughly $280 monthly in loan payments. That's a significant chunk of a $35,000 salary, especially in a city where rent alone can consume half of take-home pay.

The real question is whether this degree fits into a larger plan. If graduate school is the goal, this becomes an investment in prerequisites rather than a terminal credential. If not, understand that similar programs typically lead to human services roles that are personally meaningful but financially constrained. The debt load is reasonable compared to many programs, but only if the career path justifies it.