Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies at Southeast Missouri State University

Similar programs across Missouri suggest first-year earnings around $38,725 for Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies graduates—a figure that outpaces the national median of $34,451 by over $4,000. With estimated debt of $25,250, this translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65, meaning graduates would owe roughly eight months of their first year's salary. That's a reasonable starting point for a field where many professionals find meaning in community engagement and outdoor programming.

The challenge lies in the uncertainty. These estimates draw from just three Missouri programs, and the range among peer schools is substantial—from $28,345 at Missouri State-Springfield to $42,389 at Northwest Missouri State. Where Southeast Missouri State would fall within that $14,000 spread matters significantly for your family's return on investment. The field itself tends toward modest early earnings, so graduates need realistic expectations about lifestyle and loan repayment timelines.

If your child is passionate about recreation management or park services, this degree can open doors—but income growth typically depends on moving into administrative roles or specialized areas like therapeutic recreation. Before committing, try to connect with recent Southeast Missouri State graduates in this specific program to understand their actual employment outcomes and starting salaries, since the available data can only tell you what's happening at comparable schools.