Human Development, Family Studies, at Post University

Post University's Human Development program costs more than twice what graduates earn in their first year—a $34,584 debt load against $28,745 in initial earnings. While those earnings sit above the national median and at Connecticut's state average for this field, the debt burden is concerning: it ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of similar programs saddle graduates with less debt.

The earnings trajectory makes matters worse. Instead of growing with experience, median pay actually drops 6% to $26,863 by year four. This isn't typical career progression—it suggests graduates may struggle to advance in their roles or face limited job mobility. For context, three-quarters of Post's students receive Pell grants, indicating this serves a financially vulnerable population that may be particularly affected by this debt-to-earnings imbalance.

The math here is straightforward: paying off $34,584 in debt while earning under $27,000 annually will be extremely difficult, even with income-driven repayment plans. If your child is considering this program, compare it carefully against community college alternatives or programs at public institutions where the same degree wouldn't require carrying debt equal to more than a full year's salary. The field matters less than the cost when earnings potential is this limited.