Public Administration at University of Central Florida

UCF's Public Administration program lands graduates $7,000 below Florida's median for the degree and in the bottom quartile both statewide and nationally. That first-year salary of $38,681 is striking when nearby Florida International University's grads start at $46,281 and Florida Atlantic matches the state median. The $22,453 debt load is actually below average, but that doesn't offset the earning deficit—you're still looking at more than half a year's salary in loans.

The silver lining is real wage growth: earnings jump 25% to $48,198 by year four, finally approaching what other programs deliver at graduation. For students choosing UCF for in-state tuition or Orlando job market access, this trajectory matters. However, those initial years of lower earnings compound over time—that's four years of smaller 401(k) contributions, delayed home-buying, and slower wealth building compared to peers at other Florida schools.

If your child is set on public administration at a Florida public university, this program ranks near the bottom of available options. The debt is manageable, but starting $7,000 behind state peers means playing catch-up throughout their twenties. Unless UCF offers significant financial aid or specific career connections that justify the earnings gap, programs at FIU or FAU deliver better immediate returns.