Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $34,792 track close to the $36,554 national median for Social Work programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 10.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 3% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Social Work career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $33,188 against $34,792/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #259 ranking among 338 Social Work programs places Alabama State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
A 21% earnings increase from $34,792 to $42,241 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.