Human Development, Family Studies, at University of Utah
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
The University of Utah's Human Development program stands out among Utah options, earning graduates $41,041 by year four—54% more than the state median and placing them in the 80th percentile statewide. With just $15,500 in debt (matching the already-low state median), graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44, meaning they could theoretically pay off their loans in roughly five months of gross income. This combination of above-average earnings and below-average debt makes it the strongest Human Development program in the state by most measures.
The 16% earnings growth from year one to year four signals genuine career progression rather than stagnation, and the program outperforms 68% of similar programs nationally—solid positioning for a field that typically doesn't command high starting salaries. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonably reliable data without raising red flags about program viability.
For families concerned about ROI in a helping profession, this program delivers. The low debt load minimizes financial risk while graduates build experience in fields like social services, education, or family counseling. Among Utah's six Human Development programs, this is the clear leader for balancing career outcomes with affordability.
Where University of Utah Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human development, family studies, bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Utah graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Utah graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 68th percentile of all human development, family studies, bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Utah
Human Development, Family Studies, bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (6 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Utah | $35,467 | $41,041 | $15,500 | 0.44 |
| Weber State University | $35,861 | $36,219 | $18,792 | 0.52 |
| Utah State University | $26,561 | $27,114 | $16,573 | 0.62 |
| Brigham Young University | $25,342 | $24,823 | $11,250 | 0.44 |
| Utah Valley University | $20,971 | — | $13,500 | 0.64 |
| National Median | $33,543 | — | $25,000 | 0.75 |
Other Human Development, Family Studies, Programs in Utah
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Utah schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber State University Ogden | $6,391 | $35,861 | $18,792 |
| Utah State University Logan | $9,228 | $26,561 | $16,573 |
| Brigham Young University Provo | $6,496 | $25,342 | $11,250 |
| Utah Valley University Orem | $6,270 | $20,971 | $13,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Utah, approximately 20% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 70 graduates with reported earnings and 62 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.