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Best Value Family and Consumer Economics and Related Studies Colleges

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Tennessee State University delivers the most affordable Family and Consumer Economics education at just $10,026 net cost, while Texas Tech University graduates command the highest salaries at $48,432 annually. This stark earnings gap of over $17,000 reflects the field's connection to regional industries, from agricultural extension services in rural areas to consumer advocacy roles in major metropolitan markets. The Southeastern states dominate affordable options, with six programs under $15,000 net cost, while graduates nationwide find opportunities in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and corporate consumer affairs departments. University of Georgia stands out with both reasonable costs at $13,816 and strong earnings potential of $43,798, plus an 87% graduation rate that signals solid program support. Family and consumer economics professionals increasingly work in financial literacy education, a growing field as states mandate personal finance curriculum in public schools.
30
Programs
$6,747 – $25,321
Net Price Range
$36,919
Avg. Program Earnings
61.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

30 Family and Consumer Economics and Related Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,816 $43,798 $11,180 87.2% 42.6%
2 $10,026 $30,771 $8,568 33.0%
3 $20,071 $48,432 $11,852 67.5% 67.3%
4 $13,670 $32,648 $12,051 67.8% 89.8%
5 $16,438 $39,214 $11,450 56.2% 87.7%
6 $18,292 $43,277 $12,859 87.7% 52.7%
7 $12,599 $29,092 $9,506 54.0% 72.5%
8 $18,165 $41,565 $10,497 75.5% 90.2%
9 $14,229 $30,554 $8,486 36.0% 86.0%
10 $13,181 $27,846 $12,186 62.6% 72.8%
11 $18,219 $38,072 $9,299 59.6% 86.1%
12 $19,889 $41,193 $14,130 76.2% 79.1%
13 $17,139 $34,927 $16,488 84.8% 74.9%
14 $18,109 $36,401 $13,484 73.5% 68.4%
15 $17,424 $32,772 $10,108 65.8% 78.6%
16 $22,150 $40,896 $11,900 73.7% 80.1%
17 $25,321 $45,128 $13,160 8.8%
18 $16,488 $27,947 $8,302 59.8% 86.0%
19 $13,172 $9,315 63.9% 89.1%
20 $14,553 $9,755 40.7% 89.7%
21 $16,928 $11,205 89.3% 49.1%
22 $18,661 $34,700 46.4% 79.8%
23 $16,378 $10,234 65.9% 70.6%
24 $20,004 $34,595 61.7% 72.5%
25 $20,413 $13,746 66.4% 86.5%
26 $14,981 $12,799 48.2% 82.9%
27 $6,747 $8,147 52.2% 78.1%
28 $15,590 $11,505 88.6% 44.6%
29 $15,745 $10,314 38.7% 54.9%
30 $15,960 $13,626 65.9% 86.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide earnings gap between Family and Consumer Economics graduates?

Texas Tech graduates earn $48,432 compared to $27,846 at University of Hawaii at Manoa, a difference of over $20,000 annually. Geographic location plays a major role, as states with strong agricultural economies and large cooperative extension systems typically offer higher salaries. Career specialization also matters, with graduates entering financial planning, consumer advocacy, or corporate roles earning more than those in traditional education positions. The job market varies significantly by region, with some areas offering more government and nonprofit opportunities.

How do public university costs compare for this major?

Net costs range from Tennessee State's $10,026 to Iowa State's $18,219, showing significant variation even among public institutions. In-state tuition provides the best value, with options like South Dakota State at $9,299 and Tennessee State at $8,568 for residents. Out-of-state students face higher costs, but schools like University of Georgia still maintain reasonable net prices at $13,816. Regional cost of living differences explain much of this variation, with Southern and Midwest schools typically offering lower expenses.

Does graduation rate correlate with program quality in this field?

University of Georgia and Ohio State both achieve 87% graduation rates with strong earnings outcomes of $43,798 and $43,277 respectively. However, Tennessee State maintains only a 33% graduation rate despite offering the lowest costs, suggesting institutional support varies widely. Iowa State combines a solid 75.5% graduation rate with competitive earnings of $41,565, indicating well-structured programs. Students should consider both metrics, as higher graduation rates often signal better academic support and career preparation services.

Where do Family and Consumer Economics graduates find the best job markets?

Texas leads in graduate earnings, with Texas Tech alumni averaging $48,432 and Texas State graduates earning $39,214 annually. The state's large population, agricultural sector, and corporate presence create varied opportunities in consumer affairs, financial education, and extension services. Georgia and Ohio also offer strong markets, with graduates earning over $43,000 at major universities in those states. Rural states may offer lower salaries but often provide stable government and nonprofit positions with good benefits.

Is student debt manageable for graduates in this field?

Average debt levels range from Iowa State's low $16,029 to Tennessee State's concerning $28,250, creating varying debt-to-income ratios. University of Georgia graduates carry $18,750 in debt against $43,798 earnings, resulting in a manageable 43% debt-to-income ratio. Tennessee State presents challenges with $28,250 debt versus $30,771 earnings, creating an 92% ratio that could strain budgets. Students should target programs where debt stays below 60% of expected first-year earnings for comfortable repayment.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.