Human Development, Family Studies, at Syracuse University

Syracuse University's Human Development and Family Studies program posts strong national earnings—79th percentile—but ranks middle-of-the-pack among New York schools at the 60th percentile. That regional context matters: graduates earn about the same as the state median ($44,252 vs. $36,178 after one year), but pay comparable debt to attend a private university versus more affordable SUNY options. Cornell leads the state at $38,401, with Binghamton and SUNY Oneonta close behind at roughly $36,000—all while charging significantly less than Syracuse's private tuition.

The debt picture looks manageable at first glance—$22,981 is below the national program average, and the 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio is reasonable. Graduates see solid 20% earnings growth by year four, reaching $44,252. However, this is a field where earnings plateau relatively early, so those hoping for continued steep salary growth may be disappointed.

For families paying in-state tuition at Syracuse (rare) or receiving substantial financial aid, this program delivers competitive outcomes. But for out-of-state families paying full freight, the numbers are harder to justify when SUNY alternatives produce similar graduate earnings at a fraction of the cost. The moderate sample size suggests these figures are reasonably stable, though individual outcomes will vary.