Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $33,921 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 12.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 6% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Social Work career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $25,750 against $33,921/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #182 ranking among 338 Social Work programs places Texas Tech University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The $33,921-to-$54,331 earnings arc over five years reflects a 60% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.