Social Sciences at Tulane University of Louisiana

A highly selective private university like Tulane—where admitted students averaged 1443 on the SAT—produces surprisingly modest estimated earnings for social sciences graduates. Peer programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $36,000, which translates to roughly $17 per hour. That's concerning given that Tulane's sticker price and competitive admissions might lead families to expect stronger early-career outcomes, particularly when only 9% of students receive Pell grants, indicating this is largely a full-pay student body.

The estimated $27,000 debt figure seems manageable on paper, sitting just above the national median for these programs. But context matters: this assumes significant family contribution or merit aid to bridge the gap at a school where total cost exceeds $80,000 annually. If your child takes on substantially more debt than this estimate—entirely possible without generous aid—the math deteriorates quickly at $36,000 in earnings. Even at the estimated levels, the 0.74 debt-to-earnings ratio leaves little margin for error in a relatively flat early-career earnings trajectory typical of social sciences degrees.

Before committing, get concrete numbers on your family's actual net price and compare that to what similar programs cost at LSU or other state options. The Tulane brand may open doors that justify the premium, but these estimates suggest the financial payoff isn't automatic—especially if graduate school becomes necessary to reach career goals.