Human Services, General at Columbia College
serving 5,359 students in Columbia, MO.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $35,001 at Columbia College come in 17% above the national median of $29,996 for Human Services, General programs.
At 9.2x the cost of tuition, the ten-year earnings outlook represents a strong return. Not exceptional, but meaningfully positive.
AI risk is moderate — 26% task exposure — and the 19% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Human Services, General graduates.
The $28,454 debt-to-$35,001 income ratio translates to about 10 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #27 out of 46 programs, Columbia College's financial outcomes for Human Services, General trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $35,001 to $43,516 shows 24% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Human Services, General connects to 2 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
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 Services, General graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social and community service managers | $78,240 | +6.4% | 61% |
| Community and social service specialists, all other | $54,940 | +4.6% | 100% |
| Social and human service assistants | $45,120 | +6.4% | 61% |
About Human Services, General Careers
Your career in human services begins on the front lines as a social and human service assistant. Working in community centers, nonprofit offices, or government agencies, your day involves hands-on support: helping a family apply for food assistance, connecting an individual with transportation services, or documenting client progress in case management software. This is where you build foundational skills and a reputation for reliability.
Compare & Explore
Human Services, General Overview
Human Services, General at Other Schools
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Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.