Social Work at University of Alaska Fairbanks

UAF's social work graduates start well above national norms—earning $48,151 compared to the national median of $37,296—but this advantage deserves scrutiny. While the program ranks in the 95th percentile nationally, Alaska has only two social work programs, and UAF's graduates actually earn less than the state median. Even more concerning, earnings dip to $46,261 by year four, suggesting either challenging career progression or possible out-migration of higher earners.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $28,750, translating to a manageable 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio that beats the national average. However, parents should know this data comes from a very small sample—fewer than 30 graduates—which makes these figures less reliable than those from larger programs. The actual outcomes for any individual student could vary significantly.

For families committed to keeping their student in Alaska, this program offers solid starting pay in a field with consistent demand. But the earnings decline over time raises questions about long-term career trajectories, particularly in a state with limited urban centers and social service infrastructure. If your child is open to relocating after graduation, they might leverage that strong first-year salary into opportunities elsewhere with better advancement potential.