Social Work at University of St Thomas

Comparable social work programs in Minnesota suggest first-year earnings around $44,546 with typical debt of $27,000—a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 that's manageable by most standards. By year four, graduates here earn $47,656, which aligns closely with what Metropolitan State and Bemidji State graduates report. This progression indicates steady if unspectacular growth, typical for a field where passion often outweighs paychecks.

What works in St. Thomas's favor is the relative affordability. The estimated $27,000 debt load tracks with other Minnesota programs producing similar outcomes, and it's just above the national median for social work degrees. With only 20% of students receiving Pell grants, the school serves a largely middle-to-upper-income population that may have additional family support, potentially reducing actual borrowing needs below this estimate.

The challenge is that social work salaries, while decent in Minnesota compared to the $37,296 national median, remain modest in absolute terms. Your child will likely manage the debt comfortably but won't have much breathing room for lifestyle choices or aggressive savings in early years. If they're committed to the profession and you can provide some financial cushion—or they can borrow less through scholarships or working—this program should deliver solid preparation without crushing financial consequences.