Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management at Arkansas Tech University

Arkansas Tech's recreation management program costs less than many alternatives while delivering earnings that beat both state and national medians. With first-year earnings of $35,073 against $23,726 in debt, graduates face manageable payments—the debt represents about eight months of income, which is reasonable for an entry-level recreation management career. Among Arkansas's two programs in this field, Arkansas Tech substantially outperforms Henderson State (where graduates earn just $29,307), making it the clear state leader.

The numbers place this program above average nationally too, ranking in the 65th percentile for earnings. That's notable in a field where the national median sits at $33,161. Recreation management isn't a high-earning field—expect steady middle-class income rather than rapid salary growth—but Arkansas Tech's graduates start ahead of most peers. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means individual outcomes can swing these figures, but the program's consistent advantage over state and national comparisons suggests real value.

For students genuinely interested in parks and recreation careers, this represents solid preparation at a reasonable price. The debt load won't be crushing, and starting salaries exceed what most graduates in this field can expect. Just understand you're choosing lifestyle and passion over peak earning potential—which is fine if that matches your child's priorities.