Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences at Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Similar Family and Consumer Sciences programs across Texas suggest first-year earnings around $35,500—just above the national median for this field—but paired with about $26,700 in student debt. That's a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.75, meaning graduates would owe roughly nine months' worth of their first-year salary. For context, Texas A&M-Kingsville serves a predominantly first-generation and lower-income student body (55% receive Pell grants), making this debt load particularly consequential.

The challenge with this field is that earnings typically start modest and grow slowly. Comparable programs in Texas show remarkably similar outcomes—Sam Houston State reports $37,540, while Stephen F. Austin comes in at $34,450—suggesting limited variation in early-career prospects regardless of institution. The debt burden here isn't catastrophic, but it's substantial relative to starting pay, especially if your child plans to work in school districts, nonprofits, or extension services where salaries trend lower.

The bottom line: this degree path appears financially viable but not lucrative. Monthly loan payments could consume 10-15% of take-home pay in those early years. If your child is genuinely passionate about family services, education, or community health, the investment may make sense—but they should understand they're choosing a service-oriented career where financial reward comes primarily from job stability and benefits rather than salary growth.