Apparel and Textiles at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

The numbers here tell a troubling story, even accounting for the small sample size: graduates earn $25,247 in their first year—well below both the Illinois state median of $31,179 and far below the national median of $36,945. While the program ranks in the 25th percentile among Illinois schools (admittedly only three offer this degree), it sits in just the 5th percentile nationally. That same 5th percentile ranking for debt—meaning 95% of programs leave students with less debt—compounds the problem with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.23.

The modest 10% earnings growth to $27,862 by year four doesn't substantially improve the financial picture. For context, Illinois State University's comparable program produces first-year earnings of $37,111—nearly 50% higher. The $31,000 debt burden becomes particularly concerning when you consider that first-year earnings barely cover basic living expenses, making repayment challenging from day one.

Given these outcomes and the availability of stronger alternatives within Illinois, this program represents a questionable investment. The small sample size means individual circumstances vary widely, but the data consistently points toward graduates struggling with both low earnings and above-average debt. Parents should carefully consider whether the specific career goals justify these economics, or whether transferring to a higher-performing program might better serve their student's future.