Hospitality Administration/Management at University of Missouri-Columbia

Mizzou's hospitality program punches above its weight nationally, placing graduates in the 79th percentile for earnings with first-year salaries of $38,916—well above the $34,675 national median. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60, graduates carry manageable debt loads relative to their income, and the 16% earnings jump to $45,198 by year four shows solid career trajectory in an industry where early wages can stagnate.

Within Missouri, the picture is more competitive. At the 60th percentile statewide, Mizzou edges out programs like Southeast Missouri State but essentially matches Missouri State's outcomes while carrying the same median debt of $23,250. This means families aren't paying a premium for the Mizzou name in hospitality—they're getting comparable in-state value with the potential upside of a flagship university's alumni network and recruiting reach.

The real question is whether hospitality management aligns with your child's risk tolerance. These are solid outcomes for the field, but hospitality careers typically demand long hours and face-to-face service even as earnings grow. If your student is genuinely drawn to hotel, event, or tourism management, this program delivers reliable preparation without excessive debt. If they're uncertain about the industry, the relatively modest starting salary makes this a riskier exploratory choice than a business degree with broader exit options.