Human Resources Management and Services at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Bachelor's Degree
umich.eduAnalysis
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's HR program completely redefines what's possible in this field. While the typical HR graduate in Michigan earns around $50,600 their first year, U-M graduates pull in $82,714—64% more than the state median and nearly double what peers earn at other Michigan schools. This isn't just marginally better; it's a different category of outcome entirely. The program ranks in the 95th percentile both nationally and statewide, meaning it outperforms 95% of all HR programs in the country.
The financial picture is equally impressive. With just $14,225 in median debt—roughly half the national average—graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.17, meaning they could theoretically pay off their loans in about two months of gross earnings. That's extraordinarily manageable. Earnings also grow steadily to $92,289 by year four, suggesting graduates are advancing into management roles rather than plateauing.
For parents weighing the cost of U-M's competitive admission process and tuition, this program delivers clear ROI. Your child would be entering the workforce with both the Michigan brand and earnings that vastly exceed what they'd find at more accessible in-state options. If they can get in and you can manage the four-year investment, the HR path at U-M appears to be one of the strongest career launches available in this field anywhere in the country.
Where University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $82,714 | $92,289 | +12% |
| Michigan State University | $56,501 | $80,270 | +42% |
| Oakland University | $51,010 | $60,527 | +19% |
| Concordia University Ann Arbor | $58,982 | $60,257 | +2% |
| Central Michigan University | $50,612 | $59,968 | +18% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (19 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,228 | $82,714 | $92,289 | $14,225 | 0.17 | |
| $34,200 | $58,982 | $60,257 | $37,050 | 0.63 | |
| $15,988 | $56,501 | $80,270 | $23,475 | 0.42 | |
| $14,944 | $55,944 | — | $22,831 | 0.41 | |
| $23,324 | $51,681 | $57,458 | $31,112 | 0.60 | |
| $14,694 | $51,010 | $60,527 | $25,480 | 0.50 | |
| 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 Michigan-Ann Arbor, approximately 18% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 51 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.