Human Development, Family Studies, at Utah Valley University

At just $20,971 one year after graduation, Utah Valley's Human Development program graduates earn significantly less than the state median of $26,561—essentially leaving $5,600 annually on the table compared to peers at other Utah schools. This ranks in the bottom quarter statewide and the bottom 5% nationally, with nearby Weber State and University of Utah graduates earning nearly $15,000 more in the same field. While the $13,500 debt load is relatively modest, it still represents 64% of first-year earnings, creating a tight financial squeeze when most graduates are barely clearing $1,750 per month before taxes.

The concerning piece is that this appears to be a program-specific issue, not just low starting salaries across the board. Even Brigham Young's graduates in this program earn $4,400 more annually, and Utah State matches the state median. Given that 23% of UVU students receive Pell grants, these lower earnings hit families who can least afford the gap particularly hard.

If your child is set on this field at UVU, understand they'll likely need additional credentials or years of experience to reach typical earnings for this degree. The other Utah programs deliver measurably better outcomes without dramatically higher debt. This is a situation where choosing the same major at a different in-state school could mean an extra $5,000-$15,000 per year from day one.