Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies at University of Rhode Island

The tiny sample size here (under 30 graduates) makes these numbers unstable, but there's an intriguing pattern worth noting: URI graduates in this program start at $28,181—below the national median—but jump to $50,330 by year four. That 79% earnings growth is substantial and suggests graduates are finding their footing after initially struggling in the job market. Within Rhode Island's limited field of four schools offering this major, URI ranks in the 60th percentile, though that's still trailing the national median by about $3,000 in first-year earnings.

The $21,875 in debt is manageable relative to that challenging first-year salary (0.78 ratio), and well-positioned compared to both state and national averages. However, parents should understand what that initial $28,181 means practically: their graduate will likely need financial support or modest living arrangements in year one. The strong four-year earnings suggest career paths that require time to develop—perhaps nonprofit work, community organizing, or positions requiring additional credentials.

The small cohort size is the elephant in the room. Next year's class could see entirely different outcomes. If your student is passionate about this field and URI feels like the right fit, the combination of reasonable debt and eventual earnings growth is encouraging. But recognize you're looking at a snapshot that might not repeat, and the first year after graduation may require a financial cushion.