Human Services at Mount Saint Mary's University

California's human services programs typically launch graduates into the mid-to-high $30,000s, and the estimated figures here—$36,630 in first-year earnings against $32,524 in debt—align closely with what peer programs produce both statewide and nationally. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89 suggests manageable repayment if you're committed to social services work, though it's worth noting that similar programs at Cal State Monterey Bay and University of Phoenix-California show slightly higher earnings outcomes.

The challenge isn't unique to Mount Saint Mary's: human services as a field tends toward modest starting salaries regardless of where you study. What matters more here is the school's mission fit—over half of students receive Pell grants, indicating the institution serves students who often pursue these community-focused careers. The estimated debt burden sits right at the national median for this degree, meaning you're not paying a premium for this particular program.

The practical consideration is whether your child is genuinely drawn to social work, counseling, or nonprofit administration, where mission often outweighs salary. If they're exploring options or unsure about the field, the debt load—while not catastrophic—doesn't leave much cushion for career pivots. For students certain about serving vulnerable populations, these numbers reflect the field's financial reality rather than a red flag about this specific program.