Social Sciences at Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State's social sciences program sits right at the state median for earnings but carries debt levels that should concern parents. While first-year graduates earn $37,193—essentially matching both Missouri and national averages—they're graduating with $34,390 in debt, placing this program in the 90th percentile nationally for debt burden. That nearly dollar-for-dollar debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates will face a tougher repayment journey than most social sciences majors.

The upside is relative: among Missouri's limited social sciences options, this program ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while sitting at the state median for debt. For students planning to stay in-state, Southeast Missouri delivers middle-of-the-pack outcomes without the premium price tag of selective private schools. The 79% admission rate and modest SAT scores suggest this serves as an accessible option for Missouri families.

However, the sample size here is crucial—with fewer than 30 graduates in the data, these numbers could swing considerably year to year. If your student is debt-averse or uncertain about their post-graduation plans, that $34,000 debt load deserves serious scrutiny. Social sciences degrees often require graduate school for higher earnings, which means potentially taking on additional debt. Parents should have frank conversations about career plans and whether those plans justify borrowing near the full first-year salary.