Human Resources Management and Services at Park University

Park University's HR program delivers something rare: graduates carry substantially less debt than typical—$19,383 versus the Missouri median of $30,875. With starting salaries around $51,000, that creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, meaning graduates owe less than five months of first-year pay. Among Missouri HR programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while keeping debt exceptionally low.

The concerning pattern here is the earnings trajectory. Four years out, median pay drops to $46,437—a 9% decline that's unusual for a bachelor's program. This could reflect graduates transitioning between roles, taking on HR positions in lower-cost markets, or simply the reality of mid-level HR compensation in this region. It's worth noting that even with this dip, graduates still earn competitively compared to Missouri peers, landing just below Saint Louis University's outcomes.

For families weighing options, the low debt burden is the standout feature. A Park graduate owing $19,000 is in a fundamentally different financial position than someone carrying $30,000-plus from elsewhere in the state, even if initial salaries are similar. That cushion matters when building early career stability. The earnings slide after year one deserves attention during campus visits—ask about career services support and whether alumni typically advance within organizations or need to job-hop for growth.