Human Development & Family Studies at American Public University System
with 38,976 students enrolled in Charles Town, WV.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $16,558 place American Public University System below the $24,123 national median for Human Development & Family Studies — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 16.4x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Human Development & Family Studies programs nationally.
The 40% gap between optimistic and pessimistic AI scenarios is notable. With 33% of typical tasks exposed to automation, AI adoption could meaningfully shift career outcomes for Human Development & Family Studies graduates.
Median debt of $20,756 against $16,558/yr in first-year earnings means roughly 1.3 years of salary goes to loan repayment. That's a heavy but not crushing debt load for a trade program.
Ranked #81 of 85 Human Development & Family Studies programs, American Public University System falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $27,395 show a 65% jump from the $16,558 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration in this trade.
There are 3 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Human Development & Family Studies, including Child Care Development Specialist (median $32,050/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Human Development & Family Studies graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologists, all other | $117,580 | +4.3% | 56% |
| Social scientists and related workers, all other | $100,340 | -1.7% | 48% |
| Family and consumer sciences teachers, postsecondary | $77,280 | +3.4% | 46% |
About Human Development & Family Studies Careers
Your career path often begins on the front lines, either in a bustling community center or a vibrant preschool classroom. You’ll work directly with people, helping a family navigate social service applications on a computer one moment, then guiding children through a creative learning activity with art supplies the next. The work is hands-on, focused on providing direct support and guidance.
Read the full Human Development & Family Studies career guide →
Compare & Explore
Human Development & Family Studies Overview
Human Development & Family Studies at Other Schools
Other Majors at American Public University System
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.