Human Development, Family Studies, at University of Nevada-Reno

University of Nevada-Reno graduates in Human Development and Family Studies earn slightly above the national median for this field, with first-year earnings of $35,322 that grow to $42,343 by year four—a solid 20% increase. The program performs in the 67th percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Nevada, though with only two institutions offering this major in-state, the state comparison is less meaningful. More encouraging is the debt picture: at $21,875, graduates owe about $3,000 less than the national median, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62.

The practical reality here is that this program prepares students for social services, childcare, and family support roles that typically offer modest but stable earnings. The positive earnings trajectory and below-average debt make this one of the better outcomes within a field not known for high salaries. A robust sample size of 100+ graduates adds confidence that these numbers reflect typical results.

For families comfortable with their child entering helping professions, this program delivers reasonable value—students graduate with manageable debt and see meaningful salary growth in their first few years. The key is going in with realistic expectations about earning potential in human services careers, where passion and purpose often matter more than the paycheck.