Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Rhode Island College

Rhode Island College's Mental and Social Health Services program sits at the 60th percentile among Rhode Island programs but below the national median, with first-year graduates earning $37,320—about $2,700 less than typical for this field. More concerning is the earnings trajectory: four years out, salaries drop to $34,496, a decline of 8%. While the $27,000 median debt is manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72, that's based on the higher first-year figure. Against the lower fourth-year earnings, you're looking at a ratio closer to 0.78.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly with a larger cohort, so treat them as directional rather than definitive. The program serves a primarily working-class student body (41% receive Pell grants), and the accessible admissions (81% acceptance rate) make this a realistic option for Rhode Island residents who might not get into more selective programs. However, the backwards earnings trend suggests graduates may be starting in entry-level social services roles that don't lead to higher-paying positions without additional credentials.

If your child is committed to this field, plan for graduate school or additional certification—most higher-paying social services positions require them anyway. The debt level won't be crushing, but the stagnant earning potential means they'll need a clear path to career advancement beyond this bachelor's degree.