Human Services at Lake Area Technical College
with a smaller student body of 1,710 in Watertown, SD.
Program Analysis
Lake Area Technical College's Human Services program produces graduates earning $26,730/yr — within striking distance of the $29,996 national average for this trade.
With a 23.5x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 12% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Human Services career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $11,273 in median debt clears fast against $26,730 in annual earnings.
A #29 ranking among 46 Human Services programs places Lake Area Technical College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The limited growth from $26,730 to $31,016 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
For students considering alternatives, 2 registered apprenticeship programs align with Human Services careers — offering paid training instead of tuition costs.
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 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% |
Human Services Career Guide
Explore what Human Services graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 46 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Human Services Overview
Human Services at Other Schools
Other Majors at Lake Area Technical College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.