Human Development & Family Studies at West Kentucky Community and Technical College
a compact campus enrolling 2,810 students in Paducah, KY.
Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $17,435/yr fall 28% below the $24,123 national median for Human Development & Family Studies. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
With a 30.3x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
Career paths for Human Development & Family Studies carry above-average AI exposure (33% of tasks). The 39% scenario spread means the difference between optimistic and pessimistic outcomes is substantial.
A #72 ranking among 85 Human Development & Family Studies programs places West Kentucky Community and Technical College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The $17,435-to-$26,854 earnings arc over five years reflects a 54% gain — well above average career growth for trade school graduates.
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 West Kentucky Community and Technical College
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