Median Earnings (1yr)
$39,428
25th percentile (60th in NY)
Median Debt
$27,901
5% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.71
Manageable
Sample Size
72
Adequate data

Analysis

An associate's degree in HR from Bryant & Stratton Buffalo produces first-year earnings just shy of $40,000—about average nationally but right at the state median. With debt under $28,000, the initial numbers look manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71. However, the concerning trend here is backward: graduates actually earn less four years out than they do immediately after completing the program, dropping to roughly $37,000. That's unusual for any degree and suggests these roles may have limited advancement potential or high turnover.

The state ranking tells an interesting story. While this program sits only at the 25th percentile nationally, it reaches the 60th percentile among New York HR programs—meaning it outperforms most other in-state options. For families committed to staying in New York and needing the affordability of an associate's degree, this provides some reassurance. The debt load is roughly typical for this credential type, and with two-thirds of students receiving Pell grants, Bryant & Stratton clearly serves students who need accessible entry points to HR careers.

The practical takeaway: this program can launch an HR career at a reasonable cost, but parents should understand their graduate will likely need additional credentials or experience to see meaningful wage growth. The declining earnings pattern means this may function better as a stepping stone—perhaps toward a bachelor's degree or professional certifications—than as a terminal credential for career advancement.

Where Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services associates's programs nationally

Bryant & Stratton College-BuffaloOther human resources management and services programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo graduates compare to all programs nationally

Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo graduates earn $39k, placing them in the 25th percentile of all human resources management and services associates programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in New York

Human Resources Management and Services associates's programs at peer institutions in New York (12 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo$39,428$36,901$27,9010.71
Bryant & Stratton College-Albany$39,428$36,901$27,9010.71
Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North$39,428$36,901$27,9010.71
Bryant & Stratton College-Greece$39,428$36,901$27,9010.71
Bryant & Stratton College-Online$39,428$36,901$27,9010.71
National Median$40,006—$26,5360.66

Other Human Resources Management and Services Programs in New York

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New York schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Bryant & Stratton College-Albany
Albany
$18,892$39,428$27,901
Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North
Liverpool
$19,310$39,428$27,901
Bryant & Stratton College-Greece
Rochester
$19,593$39,428$27,901
Bryant & Stratton College-Online
Orchard Park
$15,891$39,428$27,901

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo, approximately 66% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 72 graduates with reported earnings and 118 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.