Human Development, Family Studies, at Warner Pacific University

Warner Pacific's Human Development graduates earn substantially more than peers at other programs—ranking in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th percentile among Oregon schools—but face a troubling trajectory. First-year earnings of $45,523 drop to $38,398 by year four, a 16% decline that's unusual for college graduates and suggests either unstable employment paths or a mismatch between initial job placements and longer-term career prospects in this field.

The debt picture amplifies this concern. At nearly $40,000, graduates carry significantly more debt than the national median of $25,000 for this program, despite Warner Pacific serving a population where 46% receive Pell grants. While the debt-to-earnings ratio starts manageable at 0.87, that calculation becomes less favorable as earnings decline. By year four, graduates are earning less than the national average while still paying down above-average loans.

For families weighing this program, the key question is what drives that initial earnings advantage and whether it's sustainable. If you're considering Warner Pacific for Human Development, investigate whether graduates are entering specialized roles that justify the premium cost, or if the strong first-year number reflects temporary circumstances. The downward earnings trend is the real red flag here—most degrees show at least modest growth over time, not decline.