Human Development & Family Studies at Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
47
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,401/yr (15% vs median)
AI Risk High (33% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (297,800 openings/yr)
ROI 2.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #70 of 156 Human Development & Family Studies programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Your Cornell degree in Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services carries the significant weight of an Ivy League education, which translates into robust opportunities. The program's interdisciplinary rigor, research focus, and strong faculty connections equip graduates not just with foundational knowledge, but with advanced analytical and critical thinking skills highly valued across diverse sectors. You’re not just learning theory; you're often engaging in cutting-edge research or community-based projects. This broad foundation allows alumni to excel in roles requiring deep understanding of human behavior and social systems, from advanced psychology research and policy analysis at think tanks or government agencies, to leadership positions in non-profits or human-centered design firms. While certain administrative aspects within these fields face AI risk, your Cornell education emphasizes complex problem-solving and interpersonal skills, making you adaptable and resilient. To maximize your outcome, actively pursue research assistantships and internships early on to specialize your interests and build a professional network within your chosen niche.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Human Development & Family Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $717K $700K $640K
Earnings Multiple 2.7x 2.6x 2.4x
Probability of Field Employment 54% 50% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 44 47

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$264,056
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$129,348
51% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$15,259
4.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$74,602
94% growth from Year 1

About Cornell University

With just 8% of applicants admitted, Cornell University ranks among the nation's most selective schools, enrolling 15,935 students in Ithaca, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $129,348 over four years — 51% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Cornell University →

Top Career Paths

Psychologists, all other $117,580/yr
Social scientists and related workers, all other $100,340/yr
Family and consumer sciences teachers, postsecondary $77,280/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Human Development & Family Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at Cornell University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Human Development & Family Studies at Cornell University?
At 44/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Human Development & Family Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Human Development & Family Studies at Cornell University?
The 33% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
What do students actually pay for Human Development & Family Studies at Cornell University?
The 51% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $264,056. At a net cost of $129,348, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →