Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies at University of Maryland-College Park

The limited data here makes this program difficult to assess confidently, but what we have suggests UMD's Ethnic Studies graduates fare reasonably well compared to peers. With first-year earnings of $34,777, they're outpacing both the national median ($31,459) and Maryland's state median ($33,758) for this field—landing in the 60th percentile statewide. The $19,500 debt load sits below the program's national average, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56.

The notable strength is earnings growth: from roughly $35,000 to over $50,000 by year four represents a 46% increase. This trajectory suggests graduates find pathways into careers with real advancement potential, though Cultural Studies degrees often require graduate education or strategic career positioning to reach higher salary brackets. It's worth noting these numbers come from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary significantly from these medians.

For families considering this major at UMD, the math works better than at many peer institutions, particularly given the relatively modest debt. However, the starting salary reality means students should enter with clear plans for how they'll leverage this degree—whether through graduate school, specific career tracks in education or nonprofits, or complementary skills that boost employability. The trajectory is encouraging, but families shouldn't expect immediate financial returns comparable to professional degree programs.