Human Services at Stephen F Austin State University

A bachelor's in Human Services from Stephen F Austin carries an estimated $27,925 in debt—notably lower than the $38,796 median for similar Texas programs and well below the $31,573 national figure. With first-year earnings around $36,630 based on national peer programs, graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76, meaning they'd owe roughly three-quarters of their annual salary. This is manageable territory for a helping profession, though far from the financial windfall some families hope a bachelor's degree will deliver.

The challenge lies in context: Human Services programs in Texas appear to underperform the national median, with the state benchmark at $33,082 versus $36,630 nationally. If Stephen F Austin's actual outcomes track closer to Texas norms rather than the national estimate, the financial picture tightens considerably. The program serves a student body where 37% receive Pell grants, suggesting many families are weighing this decision with limited financial cushion.

For a career-focused degree in social services, the estimated debt load is reasonable enough to avoid serious alarm. But parents should recognize that Human Services bachelor's degrees typically lead to emotionally rewarding but modestly compensated work. If your child is committed to this field, this program's lower estimated debt compared to state peers offers some breathing room—just don't expect the earnings trajectory of business or health professions.