Analysis
UMBC's social work program punches above its weight in a field where earnings typically struggle. With first-year graduates earning $40,316—outpacing 79% of social work programs nationally—this represents one of Maryland's stronger options in a state where most programs cluster in the mid-to-high $30,000s. More importantly, debt loads here are significantly lighter than typical: $22,500 versus the $26,362 national median means graduates start with manageable payments even on social work salaries.
The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story for a helping profession. That 30% jump to $52,571 by year four suggests graduates are moving into supervisory roles or specialized positions faster than the norm. While UMBC ranks 60th percentile within Maryland—behind Morgan State and Frostburg—the absolute dollar difference is minimal (under $1,500 initially), and the debt advantage more than compensates.
For parents worried about funding a social work degree, this program offers a practical path. Your child graduates with below-average debt, above-average starting earnings, and clear salary progression. The moderate admission rate means qualified students have realistic access to one of the region's better-performing programs in this field. It's not glamorous money, but it's about as financially sound as social work education gets.
Where University of Maryland-Baltimore County Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Maryland-Baltimore County 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 Maryland-Baltimore County | $40,316 | $52,571 | +30% |
| Bowie State University | $32,989 | $51,598 | +56% |
| Salisbury University | $34,917 | $51,043 | +46% |
| Morgan State University | $39,059 | $49,525 | +27% |
| Hood College | $32,805 | $45,833 | +40% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Social Work bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Maryland-Baltimore CountyBaltimore | $12,952 | $40,316 | $52,571 | $22,500 | 0.56 |
 Morgan State UniversityBaltimore | $8,118 | $39,059 | $49,525 | $35,000 | 0.90 |
 Frostburg State UniversityFrostburg | $9,998 | $37,836 | — | $26,000 | 0.69 |
 Coppin State UniversityBaltimore | $7,001 | $37,612 | $44,797 | $28,750 | 0.76 |
 Salisbury UniversitySalisbury | $10,638 | $34,917 | $51,043 | $23,552 | 0.67 |
 Bowie State UniversityBowie | $8,999 | $32,989 | $51,598 | $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 Maryland-Baltimore County, approximately 30% 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 83 graduates with reported earnings and 149 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.