Family and Consumer Economics at University of Arizona

A debt load around $24,000 against first-year earnings near $40,000 creates a manageable ratio of 0.60—meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their annual salary. These figures come from comparable Family and Consumer Economics programs nationally, since the University of Arizona's graduate cohort was too small to report publicly. That's not uncommon for specialized majors at even large universities.

The estimated earnings align with the national median for this field, suggesting Arizona's program delivers typical outcomes. However, the two Arizona State University campuses that do report data show slightly lower first-year earnings at $36,280, which adds important context: similar programs within Arizona may produce more modest early returns than the national average implies. Family and Consumer Economics prepares students for diverse careers—from financial counseling to community program management—but these roles rarely command high starting salaries regardless of where you earn the degree.

The debt-to-earnings picture looks reasonable on paper, but parents should recognize they're evaluating estimates drawn from peer programs rather than this university's actual track record. If your child is passionate about consumer sciences or family resource management, the financial risk appears moderate. But if they're choosing this path primarily for job security or earning potential, understanding that $36,000-$40,000 represents the realistic early-career range—not a floor—matters considerably when committing to a four-year degree.