Human Development, Family Studies, at University of Northern Iowa

University of Northern Iowa's Human Development and Family Studies program produces graduates earning slightly below both state and national medians, though the $23,000 debt load is manageable enough to keep the financial picture from becoming problematic. Starting at $32,614 and climbing to $39,572 by year four represents solid 21% growth—this isn't a field where graduates immediately command high salaries, but rather one where steady career progression matters more than explosive early earnings.

The state comparison reveals this program sits at the 40th percentile among Iowa schools, trailing Iowa State's $36,364 median by about $4,000. For a field that often leads to careers in social services, education support, or family counseling, these earnings align with typical outcomes, though parents should understand their graduate will likely need to budget carefully in those first few years. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 means the loan burden equals about 8.5 months of that first year's salary—tight but not crushing.

The real question is career trajectory beyond these snapshots. If your child is passionate about working with families or children and understands this leads to meaningful but modestly-paid work, UNI provides affordable entry to the field. If they're uncertain about their direction or hoping for higher earning potential, the below-average performance relative to peer programs suggests looking at either Iowa State or reconsidering whether this major aligns with their financial goals.