Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release).
Analysis
The University of Toledo's HR program sits in a challenging spot: while it ranks at just the 5th percentile nationally for graduate earnings, it performs closer to the state median (40th percentile among Ohio schools). That's still middle-of-the-pack when competing against 35 in-state programs, and the first-year salary of $42,714 trails even the state median by nearly $3,000. For context, top Ohio programs like Walsh University produce graduates earning almost double at $80,566, though even mid-tier options like University of Akron ($51,422) show meaningfully stronger outcomes.
The 24% earnings growth to $52,860 by year four helps close some of the gap, and the debt load of $25,000 matches the state median while coming in slightly below the national benchmark. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 means graduates could theoretically pay off loans in about 14 months of gross salaryβmanageable if they're disciplined. Toledo's 95% admission rate and substantial Pell grant population (26%) suggest this serves many first-generation and price-sensitive students who may lack alternative options.
For families comparing in-state choices, this program offers accessibility but not competitive outcomes. If your child can gain admission to Ohio State or Akron's HR programs, the salary advantage would justify any modest tuition difference. Toledo might work for students who need the open admission policy and lower cost, but they should enter with realistic expectations about earning potential in their early career.
Where University of Toledo Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human resources management and services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Toledo 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 Toledo | $42,714 | $52,860 | +24% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $58,991 | $64,319 | +9% |
| Youngstown State University | $45,244 | $59,512 | +32% |
| Franklin University | $50,827 | $57,339 | +13% |
| University of Akron Main Campus | $51,422 | $55,723 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Human Resources Management and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (35 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,377 | $42,714 | $52,860 | $25,000 | 0.59 | |
| $34,595 | $80,566 | β | $29,812 | 0.37 | |
| $12,859 | $58,991 | $64,319 | $19,500 | 0.33 | |
| $36,298 | $55,253 | β | $35,001 | 0.63 | |
| $12,799 | $51,422 | $55,723 | $20,750 | 0.40 | |
| $49,100 | $50,938 | β | $20,000 | 0.39 | |
| National Median | β | $50,361 | β | $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
Explore Related Programs
Human Resources Management and Services in Ohio
- Walsh University$80,566
- Ohio State University-Main Campus$58,991
- Bluffton University$55,253
- University of Akron Main Campus$51,422
- John Carroll University$50,938
Explore further
- All Programs covering the principles and practices of managing organizations, finances, and markets. Includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, entrepreneurship, and specialized fields like supply chain and real estate. programs nationwide
- All programs at University of Toledo
- College programs in Ohio
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 Toledo, 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.
Sample Size: Based on 82 graduates with reported earnings and 74 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.