Human Services at Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University's Human Services program starts graduates at just $29,062—well below both the Illinois median ($35,198) and the national average ($36,630). This places it in the bottom quarter nationally, though middle-of-the-pack among Illinois schools. The initial earnings struggle is real: graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.93, meaning they owe nearly a full year's salary. With $27,000 in debt, students here actually borrow less than typical for this field, but the low starting salary makes even moderate debt feel substantial.

The program's saving grace is meaningful earnings growth. Income jumps 37% by year four, reaching $39,783—respectable for human services and approaching top Illinois programs. This trajectory suggests graduates build valuable skills and advance into better-paying roles, though they'll likely face lean early years. For families who can provide financial support during that first year or two, this becomes more viable.

For a family evaluating this program, the question is whether your child can manage on $29,000 initially while the debt accrues interest. If they're entering this field with strong conviction and the means to weather low starting pay, the upward earnings curve offers hope. But financially, other Illinois options like Rasmussen or Judson provide stronger starting positions without requiring that same patience.