Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies at Brigham Young University

BYU's Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies program generates starting salaries of $47,596—a remarkable 38% above the national median for this field and significantly higher than Utah's state median of $37,009. Even among Utah's limited options for this major, BYU ranks in the 80th percentile, outperforming both the University of Utah and Utah State. The combination of low debt ($12,000 versus $22,500 nationally) and strong earnings creates a debt-to-income ratio of just 0.25, meaning graduates carry debt equal to only three months of their first year's salary.

This outcome likely reflects BYU's unique positioning: the university's strong emphasis on professional development, combined with its extensive alumni network and below-market tuition costs, creates advantages that most recreation programs simply don't offer. Graduates see steady 9% earnings growth to $51,688 by year four, suggesting this degree opens doors to management roles rather than leaving people stuck in entry-level recreation positions.

For families concerned about whether a recreation degree can lead to financial stability, this program offers compelling evidence that institutional quality matters tremendously. The moderate sample size of 30-100 graduates confirms real employment outcomes, not an isolated success story. Parents should recognize this as one of the rare recreation programs that delivers both professional opportunity and fiscal responsibility.