Median Earnings (1yr)
$49,441
44th percentile (60th in NJ)
Median Debt
$25,750
3% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.52
Manageable
Sample Size
550
Adequate data

Analysis

Rutgers-New Brunswick's HR program delivers solid value with impressive earning potential that accelerates over time. While first-year earnings of $49,441 sit slightly below the national average, graduates see strong 36% growth by year four, reaching $67,413—well above typical HR program outcomes. Within New Jersey, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, placing it among the top half of state options and essentially matching the state median.

The debt picture is reasonable at $25,750, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52. This means graduates typically carry debt equal to about half their first-year salary—a sustainable level that allows for reasonable repayment while building career momentum. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives confidence these numbers reflect consistent outcomes rather than outliers.

What sets this program apart is the earnings trajectory. That 36% jump from year one to year four suggests Rutgers graduates are positioned for meaningful career advancement, likely benefiting from the university's strong alumni network and reputation among employers. For families concerned about ROI, this program offers a compelling combination of moderate debt and accelerating earnings potential that should support long-term financial stability.

Where Rutgers University-New Brunswick Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services bachelors's programs nationally

Rutgers University-New BrunswickOther human resources management and services programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Rutgers University-New Brunswick graduates compare to all programs nationally

Rutgers University-New Brunswick graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 44th percentile of all human resources management and services bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey

Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (9 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Rutgers University-New Brunswick$49,441$67,413$25,7500.52
Thomas Edison State University$53,382$62,630$25,6250.48
Seton Hall University$52,285$66,852$23,0320.44
Rutgers University-Camden$49,441$67,413$25,7500.52
Rowan University$47,983$59,430$22,8500.48
Rider University$40,941$61,822$27,0000.66
National Median$50,361$26,6250.53

Other Human Resources Management and Services Programs in New Jersey

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Jersey schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton
$6,638$53,382$25,625
Seton Hall University
South Orange
$51,370$52,285$23,032
Rutgers University-Camden
Camden
$17,079$49,441$25,750
Rowan University
Glassboro
$15,700$47,983$22,850
Rider University
Lawrenceville
$38,900$40,941$27,000

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 Rutgers University-New Brunswick, approximately 27% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 550 graduates with reported earnings and 617 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.