Human Services at University of North Texas

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76 puts this program in manageable territory—at least based on what comparable human services bachelor's programs typically produce. The estimated $27,925 in debt sits below the national median for this field ($31,573), while first-year earnings around $36,630 align with what graduates from similar programs earn nationally. That's roughly $760 in monthly loan payments on a standard 10-year plan against take-home pay in the low $2,000s—tight but workable with careful budgeting.

The Texas picture adds useful perspective. Human services programs across the state show considerable variation, with the state median at $33,082—about $3,500 below the national figure. UNT's estimates track closer to national benchmarks than state ones, which could reflect the university's size and connections in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, where nonprofit and social service organizations offer more opportunities than in smaller Texas markets.

The core question is whether these estimated outcomes justify four years of investment. Human services careers often require additional credentials for advancement, and starting salaries in the mid-$30,000s mean limited financial flexibility early on. If your child is committed to this field, the debt level won't be crushing, but they should expect to live frugally those first few years and have a clear plan for building experience that leads to better-paying positions.