Human Resources Management and Services at Tarleton State University

Tarleton State's HR program starts graduates at $38,622—well below both the Texas median ($48,552) and national average ($50,361)—but something notable happens over the next few years. Earnings jump 45% to $55,952 by year four, eventually matching the national 75th percentile. This trajectory places it in the bottom quartile of Texas HR programs initially, yet graduates ultimately reach competitive mid-career earnings comparable to UT Dallas and UT San Antonio.

The $21,388 debt load is reasonable and slightly below the Texas median, creating a manageable 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio even with the modest starting salary. For a family focused on minimizing debt while their student establishes a career, this represents a lower financial risk than programs with similar outcomes but higher borrowing.

The question is whether your child can weather those lean first couple of years. If they're comfortable living frugally post-graduation or have family support during the launch phase, the strong earnings growth makes this a viable path. But if they need immediate earning power—say, to become financially independent right away—the initial $38,622 could feel constraining, especially compared to Baylor or UIW graduates starting $20,000+ higher.