Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management at Central Washington University

Central Washington University's Parks and Recreation Management graduates start at $28,140—below the national median for this field—but here's what matters: they see 65% earnings growth by year four, reaching $46,499. That's substantially higher than the national median of $33,161 and puts this program in the 60th percentile among Washington state's three offerings in this field. The $23,333 in median debt is manageable, with new graduates owing less than one year's starting salary.

The stark earnings trajectory tells an important story about this field: entry-level positions in parks and recreation typically pay modestly, but career progression happens relatively quickly for those who stay in the sector. By year four, graduates are earning enough to justify the degree investment. The program ranks low nationally (5th percentile), but that reflects the entire field's pay structure rather than this program specifically—Washington's median for this major is identical to Central Washington's starting salary.

For families comfortable with a lower initial salary in exchange for meaningful work and steady advancement, this program delivers reasonable value. The debt load won't be crushing, and the mid-career earnings make this a viable path for students genuinely interested in recreation management careers. However, students prioritizing immediate earning potential should understand they're choosing passion over paycheck, at least initially.