Human Services at University of Phoenix-Hawaii

This University of Phoenix-Hawaii Human Services program delivers earnings that outperform most national competitors but comes with concerning debt levels that significantly limit its value. While graduates earn $39,554 in their first year—placing the program in the 71st percentile nationally and beating the national median by $3,000—they're saddled with $50,140 in debt, which is 59% higher than the typical Human Services program nationally.

The debt burden is particularly problematic given the field's earning trajectory. With virtually no income growth over four years (just 1% increase), graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.27, meaning they owe more than their entire first-year salary. This ranks in the bottom 5th percentile nationally for debt levels—a red flag for financial sustainability. In Hawaii's limited market with only two Human Services programs, this one matches the state median for earnings but also the high debt levels typical of the state.

The bottom line: while this program produces competitive earnings for Human Services, the excessive debt load makes it a risky investment. Graduates will likely struggle with loan payments for years while earning salaries that barely grow. Unless your child has compelling reasons to attend this specific program, they'd be better served finding a Human Services degree with lower debt levels, even if it means slightly lower starting salaries.