Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
National University's HR program carries an estimated debt load of $30,016—higher than both the California and national medians for this degree. When peer programs in the state typically produce first-year earnings around $48,786, this debt translates to a manageable ratio of 0.62, meaning graduates would owe roughly eight months of their first-year salary. That's not alarming, but it's worth noting that several California competitors appear to deliver stronger outcomes while keeping costs lower.
The earnings estimate sits right at the state median, which means this program performs neither particularly well nor poorly compared to other California HR bachelor's programs. However, look at the range: University of Massachusetts Global graduates earn $65,673 in their first year—nearly $17,000 more than what similar National University graduates might expect. Even Cal State Long Beach, a public option, shows comparable earnings with presumably lower debt for in-state students.
For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether National University offers specific advantages—schedule flexibility, location, network—that justify potentially higher costs for middling outcomes. The 26% Pell grant rate suggests the school serves students who need accessibility, which can be valuable. But if your child has admission options at the schools showing stronger earnings data, those alternatives deserve serious consideration before committing to National's price point.
Where National University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,320 | $48,786* | — | $30,016* | — | |
| $12,520 | $65,673* | $66,122 | $22,979* | 0.35 | |
| — | $57,983* | $51,907 | $50,470* | 0.87 | |
| $35,558 | $55,616* | $59,185 | $27,155* | 0.49 | |
| $13,160 | $51,118* | $50,031 | $41,117* | 0.80 | |
| $7,008 | $46,453* | $56,388 | $12,733* | 0.27 | |
| National Median | — | $50,361* | — | $26,625* | 0.53 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with human resources management and services graduates
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Training and Development Managers
Labor Relations Specialists
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Law Teachers, Postsecondary
Compliance Officers
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
Coroners
Regulatory Affairs Specialists
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 National University, approximately 26% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 8 similar programs in CA. Actual outcomes may vary.