Analysis
An estimated debt load of $35,666 significantly exceeds what most HR associate's degree programs charge nationally—the typical graduate carries $26,536 in loans. For a program where peer institutions nationally suggest first-year earnings around $40,000, this puts Ohio Business College-Sheffield at roughly 89 cents of debt for every dollar of initial earnings, a workable but not impressive ratio that becomes more concerning when you look at year four.
The earnings trajectory here raises real questions. While similar programs typically produce first-year earnings of $40,006, this program's actual reported figure four years out is $36,279—a backward slide rather than career progression. That pattern is unusual for HR roles, which typically see meaningful salary growth as professionals gain experience and take on more responsibilities. With 85% of students receiving Pell grants, these students are borrowing heavily for credentials that may not be delivering the career advancement HR work usually offers.
The bottom line: you're looking at above-average debt for a program whose mid-career outcomes trail behind where graduates should start. Before committing, compare this directly with community colleges and public universities offering HR programs in Ohio—many will cost substantially less and may provide clearer pathways to HR generalist roles that actually build over time. The debt burden here leaves little margin for error if your child's career doesn't launch immediately.
Where Ohio Business College-Sheffield Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio Business College-Sheffield | — | $36,279 | — |
| Waukesha County Technical College | $45,383 | $51,244 | +13% |
| Rasmussen University-Minnesota | $45,969 | $49,585 | +8% |
| Rasmussen University-Florida | $45,969 | $49,585 | +8% |
| Rasmussen University-North Dakota | $45,969 | $49,585 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Human Resources Management and Services associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,385 | $40,006* | $36,279 | $35,666 | — | |
| — | $46,445* | — | $20,000 | 0.43 | |
| $15,117 | $45,969* | $49,585 | $26,536 | 0.58 | |
| $12,715 | $45,969* | $49,585 | $26,536 | 0.58 | |
| $10,899 | $45,969* | $49,585 | $26,536 | 0.58 | |
| $13,546 | $45,969* | $49,585 | $26,536 | 0.58 | |
| National Median | — | $40,006* | — | $26,536 | 0.66 |
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 Ohio Business College-Sheffield, approximately 85% 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 23 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.