Analysis
Based on comparable HR programs across Texas, Nelson University graduates can expect first-year earnings around $48,552—solidly in line with the state median but trailing stronger programs like Baylor ($62,562) and UT San Antonio ($56,961) by $8,000-$14,000 annually. With half the student body receiving Pell grants, Nelson serves a population for whom this income could represent meaningful career advancement, though it's worth noting the school's access-focused mission may limit networking advantages that boost early earnings elsewhere.
The estimated debt load of $30,016 creates a tighter financial picture than ideal. While the 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment on paper, that figure is considerably higher than the state median debt of $22,326 for HR programs in Texas. This means Nelson students are borrowing roughly $8,000 more than peers at comparable programs while earning similar starting salaries—a gap that compounds over time when you consider interest and delayed savings.
For families weighing this investment, the calculation hinges on alternatives. If your child has admission options at UT schools or similar public institutions offering HR degrees, those programs typically deliver better debt-to-earnings positioning. However, if Nelson's accessibility and location make it the most realistic path to a bachelor's degree, the HR field does offer steady employment and growth potential that can justify moderate debt—just understand you're paying a premium compared to what Texas HR graduates typically borrow.
Where Nelson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (23 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $18,610 | $48,552* | — | $30,016* | — | |
| $54,844 | $62,562* | $67,847 | $20,475* | 0.33 | |
| $35,660 | $58,499* | $61,967 | $36,007* | 0.62 | |
| — | $57,983* | $51,907 | $50,470* | 0.87 | |
| $8,991 | $56,961* | $53,030 | $22,722* | 0.40 | |
| $14,564 | $51,732* | — | $19,500* | 0.38 | |
| 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 Nelson University, approximately 50% 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 14 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.