Human Development & Family Studies at Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
39 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
40
Optimistic
39
Base Case
43
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,216/yr (5% vs median)
AI Risk High (33% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (297,800 openings/yr)
ROI 7.8x earnings multiple
Ranked #107 of 156 Human Development & Family Studies programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Human Development & Family Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $417K $423K $408K
Earnings Multiple 7.6x 7.8x 7.5x
Probability of Field Employment 54% 50% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 40 39 43

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$54,520
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$48,808
10% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,120
7.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$35,302
0% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $35,216/yr, edging above the $33,473 national average for Human Development & Family Studies — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand.

A 7.8x earnings multiple over ten years puts this program in solid financial territory. Tuition is well-justified by projected earnings.

The 2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Human Development & Family Studies career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $23,120 against $35,216/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #107 ranking among 156 Human Development & Family Studies programs places Ferris State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The limited growth from $35,216 to $35,302 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Ferris State University

Ferris State University has a 81% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 8,087 students in Big Rapids, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Ferris State University →

Top Career Paths

Psychologists, all other $117,580/yr
Social scientists and related workers, all other $100,340/yr
Family and consumer sciences teachers, postsecondary $77,280/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Human Development & Family Studies at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 39/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Human Development & Family Studies at Ferris State University?
At 39/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Human Development & Family Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Human Development & Family Studies at Ferris State University?
The 33% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →