Analysis
A Bachelor's in Human Resources from a selective private Atlanta university like Oglethorpe carries significant financial weight when outcomes remain uncertain. Based on national benchmarks for HR programs, graduates typically earn around $50,000 in their first yearβa solid but not spectacular starting point that produces a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60 when paired with an estimated $30,000 in student loans. For context, similar HR programs in Georgia show wide variation, with outcomes ranging from $38,000 to $48,000 at institutions with reported data, suggesting this program's estimated trajectory aligns with stronger state competitors.
The challenge is paying back private-school debt on an HR coordinator's salary. While the estimated debt load sits slightly above the national median for HR programs, Atlanta's strong corporate presence means access to Fortune 500 companies and professional networks that could accelerate career growth beyond those first-year figures. However, you're betting on Oglethorpe's connections and the city's job market to justify tuition that likely exceeds what state universities charge for similar credentials. With a third of students receiving Pell grants, the school does serve some middle-income families, but financial aid will be crucial in determining whether this private-school premium makes sense for your specific situation.
Where Oglethorpe University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $45,806 | $50,361* | β | $30,016* | β | |
| $40,890 | $47,538* | β | $33,888* | 0.71 | |
| $4,980 | $37,917* | $48,414 | $41,580* | 1.10 | |
| National Median | β | $50,361* | β | $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 Oglethorpe University, approximately 34% 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 national median of 169 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.