Human Development, Family Studies, at York Technical College

York Technical College's Human Development program sits in the middle of the pack for South Carolina, outearning 60% of similar programs in the state with first-year earnings of $27,011. But that's only part of the story. The concerning pattern here is what happens after graduation: earnings drop to $24,848 by year four, an 8% decline that's unusual for any degree program. At under $25,000 four years out, graduates are earning barely above the state median while watching their income shrink rather than grow.

The program does keep debt manageable at $10,125—well below both the state median of $16,208 and the national average of $14,614. That translates to payments graduates can handle even with modest earnings. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could swing considerably year to year, and the earnings trajectory deserves serious attention.

For families considering this path, understand that this associate's degree appears to open doors to entry-level positions in childcare, family services, or social work—fields where earnings plateau quickly and often require bachelor's degrees for meaningful advancement. If your child plans to transfer to a four-year program, this could be a reasonable stepping stone. If this is the endpoint, expect earnings in the mid-$20,000s with limited growth prospects.