American Sign Language at Utah Valley University

Utah Valley University's ASL program delivers earnings that initially trail the national median by $5,000, though it outperforms half of Utah's limited ASL options. More concerning is the debt profile: at nearly $17,000, graduates here carry 34% less debt than the national median, yet this still ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for debt burden—a warning flag that most ASL programs nationwide keep debt exceptionally low. The first-year debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 is manageable, but when your starting salary is $27,618, even moderate debt feels significant.

The earnings trajectory offers some optimism. Graduates see 20% income growth by year four, reaching $33,074, which nearly catches up to where national peers start. This suggests the program may prepare students adequately for career advancement, even if entry-level opportunities lag. However, ASL interpretation and teaching roles often require additional certifications or master's degrees to access higher-paying positions, which could explain both the modest starting point and the growth curve.

For families weighing this investment: the relatively lower debt is a genuine advantage, but understand that ASL careers typically require patience and additional credentials to reach comfortable income levels. If your student is committed to this field and plans to pursue certification or graduate work, UVU provides an affordable entry point. But if they're uncertain about the career path, the below-average starting earnings deserve serious consideration.