Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Saint Cloud State University

Saint Cloud State's Mental and Social Health Services program reports first-year earnings of $50,058—a full 25% above the national median for this field and tied with Minnesota's state median. The debt load of $31,171 translates to a manageable 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates earn enough in their first year to cover their debt burden in roughly 7-8 months. While the program ranks in the 95th percentile nationally, it sits at the 60th percentile within Minnesota, where Metropolitan State leads with $56,516 in first-year earnings.

The major caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates reported data, which makes these numbers less reliable than larger programs. Earnings growth is also modest, climbing just 3% over four years to $51,681. For a profession where experience often drives advancement opportunities, this flat trajectory deserves attention.

For parents weighing this option, the fundamentals look solid: reasonable debt paired with above-average starting salaries. The small cohort size might actually indicate individualized attention, though it also means one exceptional or struggling graduate can skew the averages significantly. If your child is drawn to mental and social health services and plans to stay in Minnesota, this program delivers competitive preparation without excessive debt—just recognize you're looking at a snapshot rather than a guaranteed outcome.