Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences at Nicholls State University

Within Louisiana's limited Family and Consumer Sciences landscape, Nicholls State holds its own—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide despite starting graduates at just $29,163. That's actually above Louisiana's state median of $27,399, though it trails Northwestern State by nearly $9,000. The national comparison is less favorable: 25th percentile nationally, where the typical program launches graduates at $32,000. Still, the 24% earnings growth to $36,238 by year four shows graduates gaining traction, and the debt load of $31,125 is notably lower than Louisiana's median of $35,112 for this field.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.07 means manageable first-year payments, though money will be tight initially. This isn't a high-earning field anywhere—even top programs rarely break $40,000 starting out. What matters here is that Nicholls graduates carry less debt than most Louisiana peers while earning slightly more than the state average.

For families focused on staying in Louisiana and entering social services, education, or community health roles, this program delivers middle-of-the-pack outcomes at below-average cost. Just understand you're choosing a service-oriented career path with modest earning potential, not a financial investment that pays quick dividends.