Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $33,301 track close to the $33,473 national median for Human Development & Family Studies programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 11.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Human Development & Family Studies career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $19,500 against $33,301/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #102 ranking among 156 Human Development & Family Studies programs places East Tennessee State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
A 22% earnings increase from $33,301 to $40,594 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.