Human Development & Family Studies at Mount Wachusett Community College
with a smaller student body of 2,554 in Gardner, MA.
Program Analysis
At $27,078 per year, Human Development & Family Studies graduates from Mount Wachusett Community College earn slightly above the $24,123 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
With a 23.6x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 0% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Human Development & Family Studies career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
The median debt load of $4,691 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
A #50 ranking among 85 Human Development & Family Studies programs places Mount Wachusett Community College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The limited growth from $27,078 to $27,799 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
For students considering alternatives, 3 registered apprenticeship programs align with Human Development & Family Studies 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 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 Mount Wachusett Community College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.