Human Development, Family Studies, at West Kentucky Community and Technical College

A $7,928 debt load is manageable almost anywhere, and West Kentucky keeps costs well below both state and national averages for this certificate. The challenge is the $18,132 starting salary, which falls short of what you'd hope for even from a short-term credential. That said, this program actually outperforms most Kentucky options—it ranks in the 60th percentile statewide, notably above the state median of $16,860. The real outlier is Jefferson Community and Technical College, whose graduates earn nearly $27,000, but West Kentucky at least beats the other regional community colleges.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 means graduates owe roughly five months of their first-year salary, which is reasonable for a certificate program. For students planning to work in early childhood education or family services in western Kentucky—where living costs are lower than urban areas—these earnings may stretch further than they appear on paper. However, this appears to be a stepping stone credential rather than a terminal degree, likely serving students who need quick entry into the workforce or plan to continue their education.

Given the small sample size, treat these numbers as directional rather than definitive. If your child is pursuing this field, West Kentucky offers an affordable entry point, but set realistic expectations about starting pay and encourage a plan for additional credentials down the line.