Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies at Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State's Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies program puts graduates in slightly better financial shape than most peer programs nationwide, though the limited data warrants careful consideration. With first-year earnings of $35,587 and debt of $19,661, graduates face a manageable debt burden—taking home roughly $2,100 more annually than they owe. This 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio beats both the $22,500 national median debt for the major and places graduates above the 60th percentile for Kansas recreation programs.

The real question is whether these earnings justify the investment. At roughly $35,600, starting salaries lag behind many bachelor's degrees, though they're competitive within the recreation field. The program ranks in the 62nd percentile nationally, meaning it outperforms about six in ten similar programs. For students passionate about careers in recreation management, outdoor education, or community programming, these numbers show a viable path—especially given the relatively modest debt load.

The critical caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary significantly. The 88% admission rate and accessible price point make Pittsburg State a reasonable choice for Kansas students committed to this field, but families should verify that recreation careers align with their child's long-term goals. The math works if the career fits.