Family and Consumer Economics at University of Georgia

University of Georgia's Family and Consumer Economics program significantly outperforms its national peer group, with first-year graduates earning $48,620—more than $8,000 above the national median for this degree. By year four, earnings climb to $60,003, representing solid 23% growth and placing UGA in the 90th percentile nationally. The debt load of $22,652 is actually slightly below the national average, creating a very manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47 that suggests graduates can handle their loans comfortably.

What makes this particularly interesting is Georgia context: UGA is the only school in the state offering this specific program, giving it a unique position in the local market. That monopoly status, combined with strong career services at a flagship university and an admission rate suggesting solid selectivity, creates advantages that translate directly into those above-average earnings. The 60th percentile ranking within Georgia is less meaningful here since you're essentially comparing UGA to itself.

For parents weighing this investment, the numbers are straightforward: you're looking at manageable debt paired with earnings that start strong and grow meaningfully. This isn't a program where graduates struggle to find their footing—they're earning above the national median from day one and building momentum from there. If your child is genuinely interested in consumer economics, housing, or family financial planning, this represents a solid return on investment at a respected flagship institution.