Analysis
When comparable social sciences programs in Pennsylvania produce first-year earnings around $42,844, the estimated $27,000 in debt at Mount Aloysius creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63—well within reasonable territory for a bachelor's degree. What's telling, though, is that this estimate puts the program right at the Pennsylvania median for both earnings and debt, suggesting neither a particular advantage nor disadvantage compared to peer institutions. Programs like Indiana University of Pennsylvania edge slightly higher in earnings ($45,509), while Keystone trails lower ($35,568), placing Mount Aloysius squarely in the middle pack.
The reality for social sciences majors is that first-year earnings tend to be modest regardless of where you earn the degree—the national median sits at $36,279, and even the 75th percentile nationally barely cracks $42,000. So Mount Aloysius's peer-based estimate actually exceeds the national benchmark, likely reflecting Pennsylvania's stronger regional economy. The debt load, estimated from similar private nonprofit programs nationwide, aligns closely with what social sciences graduates typically carry ($25,500 nationally).
For an anxious parent, the takeaway is this: if your child is committed to social sciences and prefers Mount Aloysius's environment, the estimated financial picture doesn't raise red flags. But since these figures are drawn from peer programs rather than actual alumni outcomes, you should ask the college directly about graduate employment patterns and whether their career services actively help social sciences majors find positions that justify even this moderate debt level.
Where Mount Aloysius College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Social Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,156 | $42,844* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $11,380 | $45,509* | — | —* | — | |
| $12,262 | $42,844* | $46,334 | $27,000* | 0.63 | |
| $17,850 | $35,568* | $40,622 | $27,000* | 0.76 | |
| National Median | — | $36,279* | — | $25,500* | 0.70 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social sciences graduates
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 Mount Aloysius College, approximately 16% 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 median of 3 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.