Human Development & Family Studies at Arapahoe Community College
serving 5,392 students in Littleton, CO.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $34,716 put Arapahoe Community College's Human Development & Family Studies program 44% above the national median of $24,123 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 84.3x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Human Development & Family Studies programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Human Development & Family Studies's career paths, with 33% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 0% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $34,716 far exceeding the $10,500 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #3 of 85 nationally, this is a top-5% Human Development & Family Studies program. Financial outcomes consistently outperform the vast majority of peers.
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 Arapahoe Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.