Human Development, Family Studies, at SUNY College of Technology at Canton

This bachelor's program sits right at New York's median for human development degrees, with comparable programs across the state typically producing first-year earnings around $36,000 and debt near $23,000. That 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates face roughly eight months of gross income in debt—manageable, though not easy on entry-level social services or education salaries.

What makes this estimate particularly relevant is how closely it tracks the national pattern. Human development programs nationwide produce similar outcomes ($33,543 median), and even Cornell graduates in this field start at just $38,401. This field simply doesn't generate dramatic salary variation by institution, which means the estimation method—based on six peer programs in New York—likely captures the reality fairly well. Canton serves a predominantly working-class student body (47% Pell-eligible), so the modest debt load relative to peer schools matters.

The practical concern is career trajectory. These roles—family support specialists, case managers, youth program coordinators—often require additional credentials for advancement, and starting salaries leave little cushion for loan payments while living independently. If your child is committed to this field, Canton's accessible price point makes sense. But if they're still exploring, understand that this degree leads to meaningful but modestly-paid work where passion matters more than prestige.