Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies at University of Utah

The University of Utah's Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies program outperforms 76% of similar programs nationwide, with first-year earnings of $37,009 beating the national median by $2,500. However, within Utah's small pool of four programs, it ranks middle-of-the-pack—BYU graduates start nearly $10,000 higher. The debt load of $23,000 sits right at the national norm but runs about $5,500 above Utah's state median, suggesting this program finances differently than some in-state alternatives.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 means graduates owe about seven months' salary, which is manageable territory for a bachelor's degree. Earnings growth shows positive momentum, climbing 15% to reach $42,364 by year four. That trajectory matters in recreation management, where entry-level positions often lead to supervisory roles or specialized certifications that boost pay. The moderate sample size means these figures represent a solid cross-section of recent graduates rather than a handful of outliers.

For families weighing this major, understand you're getting competitive national outcomes from a flagship state university, but not necessarily the best value Utah offers in this field. If your student is passionate about outdoor recreation—a natural fit in Utah's economy—this degree provides viable entry into the sector without crushing debt. Just recognize that career advancement may require geographic flexibility or additional credentials down the line.