Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies at San Francisco State University

San Francisco State's Parks and Recreation program starts with a notably rough first year—at $28,427, graduates earn about 18% less than the California median and land in just the 16th percentile nationally. That's a tough beginning in one of America's most expensive cities. However, the program demonstrates something valuable: exceptional earnings growth. By year four, median pay jumps to $50,525, a 78% increase that vaults graduates well above both state and national benchmarks.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $16,797, graduates carry slightly more than the California median but meaningfully less than the national average. The key question is whether families can weather that challenging first year financially. For students living at home or those with strong family support in the Bay Area, this trajectory makes more sense than for those taking on significant living expenses while establishing their careers.

This program suits a specific student: one who understands they're playing the long game, has flexibility during the early career years, and values SF State's affordability (that debt level is reasonable) alongside its Bay Area location and network. Parents should know their child will likely need financial cushioning early on, but the strong earnings growth suggests the degree develops marketable skills that compound over time.