Social Work at University of Central Florida

UCF's social work program sits squarely in the middle of Florida's landscape—40th percentile statewide—while graduates carry more debt than most. Starting earnings of $35,358 trail both the national median ($37,296) and the state median ($36,407), yet the debt load of $22,375 exceeds the state average even as it comes in below the national figure. This creates a tighter financial picture than you'll find at comparable programs: Florida International University graduates earn nearly $6,300 more in their first year with similar debt levels.

The 14% earnings bump over four years is modest for a field where many practitioners pursue additional credentials. By year four, UCF graduates reach $40,284, which still trails FIU by a notable margin. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 is manageable but offers little cushion for the lower salaries typical in social work—and this is a field where passion often has to balance against practical financial constraints.

For families focused strictly on return-on-investment, the stronger-earning Florida programs offer better value at comparable debt levels. UCF isn't a poor choice for social work, but it doesn't stand out in a state where several universities deliver measurably better outcomes. If your student is committed to UCF for other reasons, understand they're likely starting their career with slightly lower earnings than peers at competing Florida schools.