Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management at Eastern Illinois University

Eastern Illinois graduates from this recreation management program earn above the national median from day one, hitting $35,425 in the first year—a solid outcome for a field that typically starts modestly. The debt load of $22,500 is actually lighter than the national norm, creating a manageable 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio. Among Illinois programs, this sits right at the state median, though it trails Illinois State by about $3,700. The modest 8% earnings bump over four years is typical for entry-level recreation positions where advancement comes from moving into management roles after several years in the field.

The real consideration here is whether recreation management aligns with career expectations. Starting salaries in the mid-$30s reflect the reality of municipal and park district budgets, and the ceiling in this field—even with advancement—tends to hover around $40,000-$50,000 without shifting into senior administrative positions. For students passionate about outdoor recreation, community programming, or parks management, Eastern Illinois provides solid preparation without crushing debt.

The small sample size means these numbers could shift year to year, but the program's position above national benchmarks suggests consistent quality. If your student loves the field enough to accept its modest salary trajectory, this program won't burden them with unmanageable debt while building their career.