Analysis
Drawing from national data on similar HR programs, University of Jamestown graduates would likely start near $50,361—roughly on par with the national median but trailing what peer programs in North Dakota typically deliver. The state's median sits closer to $53,300, and nearby Rasmussen reports first-year earnings above $56,000. For a bachelor's degree at a school with a 94% admission rate, this suggests the credential positions graduates in the middle of the pack rather than offering a competitive advantage in North Dakota's job market.
The estimated debt load of $30,016 creates a manageable but not impressive financial picture. That's a 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio—workable for most graduates, though it exceeds the national median debt for HR programs by about $3,400. Combined with earnings that lag state competitors, you're looking at a longer payback timeline than what stronger regional programs might offer. HR roles generally provide steady employment, but the financial return here depends heavily on factors we can't see in these estimates: career services quality, alumni networks, and whether Jamestown's smaller setting translates to meaningful employer relationships.
If your student is committed to staying in North Dakota and values the personal attention of a small private college, this could work—but only if the actual outcomes align with these estimates. Press the school for their own placement data and typical starting salaries for recent grads before committing.
Where University of Jamestown Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Dakota
Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Dakota (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $24,820 | $50,361* | — | $30,016* | — | |
| $12,715 | $56,465* | $56,152 | $38,233* | 0.68 | |
| $9,118 | $50,122* | — | $33,519* | 0.67 | |
| National Median | — | $50,361* | — | $26,625* | 0.53 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with human resources management and services graduates
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Training and Development Managers
Labor Relations Specialists
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Law Teachers, Postsecondary
Compliance Officers
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
Coroners
Regulatory Affairs Specialists
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Jamestown, approximately 26% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 169 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.