Urban Studies/Affairs at University of New Orleans

Based on comparable urban studies programs nationally, graduates typically earn around $40,000 in their first year—a figure that sits at the median for this field but leaves little room for financial comfort in any city, let alone one as culturally rich but economically challenging as New Orleans. The estimated $23,000 in debt translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57, which is manageable by conventional standards but still represents more than half a year's gross income going toward loans before taxes and living expenses.

What makes this particularly tricky is the lack of reported outcomes data, both for UNO specifically and for the other urban studies program in Louisiana. You're essentially betting on national averages applying locally, in a state where public sector jobs (a common destination for urban studies grads) may pay below coastal benchmarks. With 40% of students receiving Pell grants, many families at UNO are already stretching financially.

If your child is passionate about urban planning, policy, or community development and has a clear career path in mind—especially one that qualifies for public service loan forgiveness—this could work. But given the uncertainty around actual outcomes and the modest earning potential, it's worth having a hard conversation about whether this specific degree is necessary for their goals, or if a more broadly marketable major with urban studies as a minor might provide better financial insurance.