Human Resources Management and Services at Athens State University

Athens State's HR program falls short of national standards but holds its own within Alabama's competitive landscape. At $44,130 in first-year earnings, graduates trail the national median by about $6,200 (15th percentile nationally), yet land near the middle of Alabama programs (40th percentile statewide). The $31,130 in typical debt creates a manageable 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning graduates owe roughly 71% of their first-year salary, which is reasonable compared to programs nationwide.

The 12% earnings growth to $49,341 by year four suggests solid career progression, though starting salaries remain the primary concern. With 42% of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves working-class Alabamians looking for stable HR careers. The debt level is essentially average for Alabama HR programs, and slightly above the national median, but not alarmingly so given the moderate sample size.

For Alabama families weighing in-state options, this program represents a practical middle ground—not the highest earner (Columbia Southern leads at $53,843), but a dependable path into corporate HR roles. The real question is whether your child could access higher-earning alternatives like UAB, which offers similar debt but slightly better early outcomes. If Athens State provides geographic convenience or better financial aid, the earnings difference of a few thousand dollars might be worth the tradeoff for a stable profession with room for growth.