Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management at Johnson & Wales University-Providence

This program starts behind but makes up ground quickly—graduates earn about $31,000 initially, below the national median of $33,161, but climb to $43,253 by year four, a 40% increase that outpaces typical career progression in this field. The $27,000 in debt creates a manageable ratio of 0.87 to first-year earnings, and represents one of the lowest debt loads nationally for this program (9th percentile). Within Rhode Island's limited recreation management landscape (only two schools offer this degree), Johnson & Wales sits right at the state median for both earnings and debt.

The real question is whether the modest starting salary works for your family's financial situation. First-year earnings lag behind the national benchmark, placing graduates in the 29th percentile nationally despite ranking 60th percentile within Rhode Island—suggesting the state itself may offer limited opportunities in recreation management compared to markets with more public parks systems or resort industries. The strong earnings trajectory shows graduates find their footing, but those early years require patience or supplemental support.

For students passionate about recreation management who can weather that initial earning period, the combination of low debt and strong growth makes this viable. The manageable debt load means graduates won't be crushed during those lower-earning early years, and the career trajectory suggests real advancement potential. Just understand this is a field where starting compensation tests your financial cushion before rewards materialize.