Human Resources Management and Services at University of North Texas

UNT's Human Resources program starts roughly $5,000 below the national median but demonstrates one of its strongest features: 28% earnings growth over four years that narrows the gap considerably. While first-year graduates earn about $45,745—below both state and national benchmarks—by year four they're pulling $58,324, approaching the earnings of stronger Texas programs. The manageable $20,142 in median debt (with a 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio) provides a cushion that matters during those early career years.

The challenge lies in that starting salary. At the 40th percentile among Texas HR programs, UNT graduates begin behind peers at UT-Dallas, UTSA, and even University of Phoenix-Texas. For a student who needs immediate post-graduation earnings to manage living expenses or family obligations, that $5,000-$10,000 gap could strain budgets. The moderate sample size also warrants some caution about consistency.

However, the trajectory tells a different story than the starting point. Students who can weather a couple of lean years while building HR experience see solid wage progression—the kind that suggests employers increasingly value UNT graduates as they gain experience. Combined with below-average debt, this program works best for students who have financial runway after graduation, whether through family support or accumulated savings, and can invest in building their career rather than chasing the highest immediate paycheck.