Program Analysis
Ball State University's Social Work graduates start at $39,094/yr — above the $36,554 national average, though not by a wide margin.
The 10.9x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. By pure financial math, this is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 24% task exposure — and the 3% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $21,500 debt-to-$39,094 income ratio translates to about 7 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
Ranked #141 out of 338 programs, Ball State University's Social Work offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
Earnings growth is modest: $39,094 to $45,042 over five years (15% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.