Human Development, Family Studies, at Mount Wachusett Community College

Mount Wachusett's Human Development program comes with exceptionally low debt—just $5,921, putting it in the 95th percentile nationally—but that advantage is somewhat offset by earnings that trail other Massachusetts options. Graduates earn around $27,000 initially, climbing modestly to $28,400 by year four. While this beats the national median by a few thousand dollars, it falls short of the $31,000 median for Massachusetts programs, landing in just the 40th percentile statewide. North Shore Community College's similar program, for instance, produces median earnings of nearly $35,000.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22 is excellent, meaning graduates owe less than three months' salary. For students planning to work in early childhood education or family services—fields where earnings start low regardless of school—this minimal debt load matters more than chasing the highest starting salary. The 38% Pell grant population suggests this program serves many students for whom avoiding debt is a critical factor in college choice.

Keep in mind these figures come from a small sample (under 30 graduates), so individual outcomes may vary more than usual. For families prioritizing affordability and a manageable financial start, this program delivers. But if maximizing early earnings is the goal, other Massachusetts community colleges appear to offer stronger placement outcomes in this field.