Hospitality Administration/Management at The University of Alabama

Alabama's hospitality management program starts below the national median at $32,178, but graduates see strong 37% earnings growth over four years—reaching $44,200, which surpasses not just the national median but even the 75th percentile for this degree. While first-year outcomes rank in just the 28th percentile nationally, the program claims the 60th percentile position in Alabama, though this reflects the state's generally weaker hospitality wages rather than exceptional performance. For context, Auburn graduates earn $40,664 in year one, showing what's possible within the state.

The $25,000 debt load is reasonable relative to starting pay, and the 0.78 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates can manage repayment, especially as their salaries climb. However, even after four years of growth, earnings remain in the mid-$40s—modest for any bachelor's degree. This matters in hospitality, where advancement often depends more on experience than credentials, and some successful hotel managers never complete college.

The value here hinges on your child's specific goals. If they're determined to work in hospitality, this program provides solid credentials at manageable debt with encouraging income progression. But if they're uncertain about the field, consider that this same tuition investment in other Alabama majors could yield significantly higher returns. The degree works best for students who know they want this career path and value the Alabama campus experience enough to accept below-average starting wages.