Human Development, Family Studies, at University of Connecticut

UConn's Human Development and Family Studies program starts graduates at just under $32,000—below the national average—but the real story is where they end up. By year four, median earnings jump to more than $50,000, representing 59% growth that outpaces typical career trajectories in this field. Among Connecticut's dozen programs in this major, UConn lands at the 60th percentile, meaning graduates earn more than most of their in-state peers, though still well behind Connecticut College's $42,000 starting point.

The $23,000 median debt is manageable relative to first-year earnings (0.73 ratio), and graduates who can weather that initial lower-earning period appear to find their footing quickly. This pattern suggests many graduates may start in entry-level social services or education roles before moving into better-paying positions in program management, counseling, or related fields. For families planning around that first year—particularly if your student will be helping with loan payments right away—the $31,642 starting salary requires realistic budgeting.

The calculus here depends on your timeline and support capacity. If you can help cover living expenses during those early years while your graduate builds experience, the trajectory looks promising. But families counting on immediate financial independence should recognize this isn't a quick-return major, even at a flagship state university.