Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies at University of Arkansas

University of Arkansas graduates in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies start slowly at $31,567, trailing both the national median ($34,451) and landing below the national 31st percentile. But that first-year figure is misleading—by year four, earnings jump 64% to $51,683, vaulting well above what most programs in this field deliver. With only two schools offering this program in Arkansas, UArk sits at the state median, though the limited comparison pool makes state ranking less meaningful here.

The debt picture is manageable. At $23,310, graduates carry roughly 9 months of first-year salary—a reasonable burden that becomes even more comfortable as earnings climb. That 0.74 debt-to-earnings ratio is better than many recreational studies programs nationally. The real question is whether families can weather that modest starting salary while the graduate builds experience in a field where advancement clearly pays off.

This program works for students committed to the recreation industry who understand they're playing the long game. The earnings trajectory suggests this degree opens doors to management or specialized roles that aren't immediately available to new graduates. If your child needs to start earning meaningful income right away, the $31K starting point could strain finances. But for families who can support a slower launch, the four-year outcome shows solid returns.