Some college majors saddle graduates with median student loan balances far above the national average, with curriculum and instruction majors borrowing over $20,000 more than typical bachelor's degree holders
Choosing a college major can have a significant impact not just on future earnings, but also on how much student debt a graduate may carry. While nearly half of U.S. undergraduates take out loans to finance their education, the amount borrowed varies widely by field of study. According to a recent report from the Education Data Initiative, the median student loan debt for bachelor's degree recipients is about $25,000, but some majors leave students with much higher balances.
Understanding which majors are associated with the highest debt loads can help prospective students and families make more informed decisions about college costs and long-term financial obligations. The gap between the lowest and highest median debt by major can exceed $20,000, underscoring the importance of weighing both educational and financial outcomes.
Majors With the Heaviest Debt Burdens
Curriculum and instruction majors top the list for median student loan debt, borrowing more than $20,000 above the typical bachelor's graduate. This field, which often leads to roles in education research, policy, or as a pathway to graduate teaching programs, can require additional credentials or advanced degrees, further increasing total borrowing. Behavioral sciences majors also face high debt, with a median balance of $44,554. Many careers in this area, such as counseling or social services, require graduate study or licensure, which can add to the financial strain.
Engineering-related technology majors graduate with a median debt of $41,308. These programs focus on applied engineering skills and real-world problem-solving, but the cost of specialized coursework and equipment can drive up borrowing. Complementary and alternative medicine majors, including fields like acupuncture and naturopathy, also see median debt above $40,000. Career prospects and earning potential in these areas can vary widely, making it critical for students to assess the return on investment before committing to substantial loans.
Comparing Debt to Career Prospects
High student debt does not always translate to higher post-graduation earnings. Some of the majors with the largest loan balances, such as behavioral sciences and alternative medicine, may lead to careers with modest starting salaries or uncertain job markets. In contrast, certain engineering and technology fields can offer higher initial pay, but the upfront cost of education remains a significant hurdle.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly half of all undergraduates borrow to pay for college, but the median amount varies by institution type, program length, and access to financial aid. Students attending private colleges or taking longer than four years to graduate often accumulate more debt. Additionally, some degrees are associated with higher unemployment rates or lower average salaries, increasing the risk that graduates will struggle to repay their loans.
For the 2021-2022 academic year, the Federal Reserve reported that total U.S. student loan debt surpassed $1.7 trillion, with the average monthly payment for borrowers aged 20 to 30 hovering around $300. These figures highlight the scale of the challenge facing new graduates, especially those in high-debt majors.
Managing Student Loan Repayment
Graduates facing large student loan balances have several options to manage repayment. Federal borrowers may qualify for income-driven repayment plans, which cap monthly payments based on income and family size, or forbearance and deferment programs that temporarily pause payments during periods of hardship. While these options can provide short-term relief, they may also extend the repayment period and increase total interest costs.
Borrowers should carefully review their loan terms, repayment options, and potential eligibility for forgiveness programs, especially if they work in public service or nonprofit sectors. Comparing likely debt with expected earnings in a chosen field can help students make more sustainable financial decisions before and after graduation.
Student loan debt is a complex financial product with long-term implications. Unlike most consumer debt, federal student loans are rarely dischargeable in bankruptcy, and missed payments can lead to damaged credit, wage garnishment, or loss of eligibility for certain federal benefits. Understanding the trade-offs between educational goals, borrowing needs, and career prospects is essential for minimizing financial stress and maximizing the value of a college degree.
