Human Resources Management and Services at Maryville University of Saint Louis

Based on comparable HR programs in Missouri, this degree suggests a middle-of-the-road investment with estimated first-year earnings around $50,800 and debt near $31,000. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 sits at a manageable level—meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first year's salary. However, it's worth noting that Maryville's estimated debt figure runs about $4,000 higher than the national median for HR bachelor's programs, while earnings track closely with both state and national norms.

The HR field itself shows remarkably consistent outcomes across Missouri schools: the four programs with reported data all cluster within a tight $3,000 range of first-year earnings. This stability suggests the credential delivers predictable value regardless of where it's earned in the state, though it also means there's limited upside potential. Similar programs typically produce graduates earning in the $49,000-$52,000 range—solid middle-class territory but not exceptional.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether that $31,000 in debt makes sense for a starting salary in the low $50,000s. The monthly loan payments would be noticeable but not crushing, leaving room for graduates to build their careers. Just recognize you're paying slightly above the national average in debt for perfectly average earnings—a trade-off that works if your child is committed to the HR field but might feel expensive if they're still exploring career options.