Human Resources Management and Services at Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio State's HR program delivers a powerful combination that most programs struggle to achieve: top-tier earnings with remarkably low debt. Graduates start at $59k—which puts them in the 80th percentile among Ohio HR programs and 90th percentile nationally—while carrying just $19,500 in debt. That's 22% below the state median and 27% below the national median for this degree. The 0.33 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in about four months of gross salary, giving them financial flexibility most HR graduates don't have.

Looking at the competitive landscape makes this program even more impressive. Only Walsh University produces higher-earning HR graduates in Ohio, and that private school comes with substantially higher costs. Ohio State beats all other major in-state options—University of Akron, John Carroll, Franklin—on starting salary while maintaining lower debt loads. The 9% earnings growth to $64k by year four suggests steady career progression, not just a strong initial placement.

For parents weighing flagship university value, this program offers clear evidence. Your child gets access to Ohio State's extensive employer network and brand recognition, translating into concrete salary advantages over smaller programs, without the debt burden that often comes with premium degrees. This is what good ROI actually looks like in higher education.