Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $26,474/yr fall 16% below the $31,506 national median for Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
The 4.3x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 45% task exposure — and the 10% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $23,000 debt-to-$26,474 income ratio translates to about 10 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #35 out of 38 programs, Benedictine University's financial outcomes for Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $26,474 to $55,710 over five years (110% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.