Analysis
University of Central Missouri's social work program outperforms most in-state alternatives, with graduates earning $40,787 four years out—over $7,000 more than the Missouri median and ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. Only Mizzler's flagship Columbia campus produces higher-earning social work graduates in Missouri. Starting at $39,295, earnings here also exceed the national median by roughly $2,000, placing graduates in the 71st percentile nationally.
The debt picture is reasonable for the field. At $26,579, it's close to both state and national norms, translating to a manageable 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio. Social work typically doesn't command high starting salaries, so these numbers represent solid positioning within the profession. The modest 4% earnings growth over four years is typical for social work careers, where advancement often requires graduate education.
For Missouri families seeking an affordable path into social work without sacrificing outcomes, UCM delivers. Your child will earn more than graduates from most comparable regional universities while taking on standard debt for the degree. Just understand that social work salaries plateau quickly without an MSW, so factor in whether graduate school fits into longer-term plans.
Where University of Central Missouri Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Central Missouri graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Missouri | $39,295 | $40,787 | +4% |
| Southeast Missouri State University | $32,224 | $38,968 | +21% |
| University of Missouri-St Louis | $35,862 | $37,224 | +4% |
| Missouri State University-Springfield | $35,544 | $37,055 | +4% |
| Missouri Western State University | $33,532 | $36,414 | +9% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Social Work bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Central MissouriWarrensburg | $9,739 | $39,295 | $40,787 | $26,579 | 0.68 |
 University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia | $14,130 | $38,236 | — | $23,119 | 0.60 |
 University of Missouri-St LouisSaint Louis | $13,440 | $35,862 | $37,224 | $31,000 | 0.86 |
 Missouri State University-SpringfieldSpringfield | $9,024 | $35,544 | $37,055 | $25,085 | 0.71 |
 Missouri Western State UniversitySaint Joseph | $9,800 | $33,532 | $36,414 | $27,679 | 0.83 |
 Lincoln UniversityJefferson City | $9,290 | $32,951 | — | $31,000 | 0.94 |
| National Median | — | $37,296 | — | $26,362 | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social work graduates
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Marriage and Family Therapists
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Healthcare Social Workers
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Social Workers, All Other
Counselors, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Central Missouri, approximately 26% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 41 graduates with reported earnings and 60 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.