Program Analysis
At $31,692/yr, Social Work graduates from Murray State University land near the $36,554 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
With a 11.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Social Work career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $23,500 against $31,692/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #291 ranking among 338 Social Work programs places Murray State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
A 24% earnings increase from $31,692 to $39,311 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.