Analysis
A bachelor's degree in Human Services at Saint Norbert College carries an estimated $32,524 in debt—close to the national median but notably lower than Wisconsin's typical $43,044. Based on comparable programs nationwide, graduates enter the field earning around $36,630, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89. That's manageable by higher education standards, suggesting the debt burden shouldn't overwhelm first-year paychecks in this helping profession.
The challenge lies in Human Services itself rather than this particular program. Similar programs across Wisconsin show earnings clustering in the mid-to-upper $30,000s—Rasmussen tops out at $40,125 while Ottawa sits at $35,168. These aren't lucrative careers despite the bachelor's credential, though the work often comes with intrinsic rewards and stable demand. Saint Norbert's relatively accessible admissions (92% acceptance rate) and small Pell-eligible population (14%) suggest you're likely paying close to sticker price at a private college, which makes that estimated $32,500 debt figure somewhat favorable compared to state peers.
The practical takeaway: if your child is drawn to social services or nonprofit work, Saint Norbert appears to deliver comparable outcomes to other Wisconsin programs without the outsized debt load some schools impose. However, the broader reality of Human Services salaries means this degree leads to modest earnings regardless of where it's earned. Factor that into your family's financial planning from the outset.
Where Saint Norbert College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Human Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $44,432 | $36,630* | — | $32,524* | — | |
| $11,982 | $40,125* | — | $46,312* | 1.15 | |
| — | $35,168* | — | $39,775* | 1.13 | |
| National Median | — | $36,630* | — | $31,573* | 0.86 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with human services graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Saint Norbert College, approximately 14% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 84 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.