Human Development, Family Studies, at Ohio University-Southern Campus

Ohio University-Southern's Human Development program significantly outperforms the national field, placing in the 92nd percentile—meaning only 8% of similar programs produce higher early earnings. At nearly $39,000 in the first year, graduates earn about $5,400 more than the typical program nationally. The debt load of $27,000 is also lower than most programs (75th percentile for affordability), creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 that suggests manageable repayment. Within Ohio, though, the picture is more average: this program sits at the state median for both earnings and debt, matching performance with other Ohio University campuses across the state.

The modest 5% earnings growth over four years means graduates shouldn't expect dramatic income increases, but the strong starting position matters more here. For a field often associated with social services and education roles—sectors where pay can lag significantly—these numbers represent solid outcomes. The low Pell grant percentage (12%) suggests this campus may draw from a more financially stable student base, though that shouldn't overshadow the program's genuine strength.

For families weighing this option, the value proposition is clear: you're getting top-tier national outcomes in this field at below-average debt levels. If your child is committed to human development work and prefers staying in Ohio, this program delivers income security that most competitors can't match.