Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences at South Carolina State University

South Carolina State's Family and Consumer Sciences program graduates earn $29,618 in their first year, sitting near the middle of South Carolina's offerings but below the national median of $31,748. The $34,625 in median debt creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.17—meaning graduates owe more than a full year's salary. While this isn't catastrophic, it's higher than ideal, especially when national peers in this field typically graduate with $26,500 in debt.

The modest 5% earnings growth to $31,164 by year four suggests this program leads to relatively stable but entry-level career paths. Given that 68% of students receive Pell grants, many families here are banking on education as a pathway to economic mobility. The reality is that first-year earnings barely crack $30,000, which can make that debt load feel heavier for graduates supporting themselves or families.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether alternative pathways—perhaps starting at a technical college or pursuing this degree part-time while working—might achieve similar career outcomes with less debt. The program performs respectably within South Carolina, but the combination of below-average national earnings and above-average debt means graduates will likely need to budget carefully in their first few working years.