Program Analysis
At $33,095/yr, Social Work graduates from Montclair State University land near the $36,554 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
At 7.3x the cost of in-state tuition, the ten-year earnings outlook represents a strong return. Not exceptional, but meaningfully positive.
AI risk is moderate — 24% task exposure — and the 2% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $22,375 debt-to-$33,095 income ratio translates to about 8 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #313 out of 338 programs, Montclair State University's financial outcomes for Social Work trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $33,095 to $39,277 over five years (19% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.