Median Earnings (1yr)
$82,714
95th percentile (95th in MI)
Median Debt
$14,225
47% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.17
Manageable
Sample Size
51
Adequate data

Analysis

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

University of Michigan-Ann ArborOther human resources management and services programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn $83k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all human resources management and services bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan

Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (19 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor$82,714$92,289$14,2250.17
Concordia University Ann Arbor$58,982$60,257$37,0500.63
Michigan State University$56,501$80,270$23,4750.42
University of Michigan-Dearborn$55,944—$22,8310.41
Davenport University$51,681$57,458$31,1120.60
Oakland University$51,010$60,527$25,4800.50
National Median$50,361—$26,6250.53

Other Human Resources Management and Services Programs in Michigan

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Concordia University Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor
$34,200$58,982$37,050
Michigan State University
East Lansing
$15,988$56,501$23,475
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Dearborn
$14,944$55,944$22,831
Davenport University
Grand Rapids
$23,324$51,681$31,112
Oakland University
Rochester Hills
$14,694$51,010$25,480

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.