Human Resources Management and Services at Wayne State University

Wayne State's HR program gets graduates working quickly at a manageable debt load, but the earnings lag behind most alternatives in Michigan. At $48,324 starting, students earn about $2,300 less than the state median, placing this program in the 40th percentile among Michigan's 19 HR programs. The $24,213 median debt is lower than both state and national averages, translating to a reasonable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50—meaning graduates owe about half their first year's salary.

The 16% earnings growth to $56,255 by year four suggests steady career progression, though graduates still trail peers at comparable institutions like Michigan State ($56,501 starting) and Davenport ($51,681). Michigan's flagship university shows what's possible: U-M Ann Arbor HR graduates earn $82,714, nearly double Wayne State's starting figure. Given Wayne State's 82% acceptance rate and substantial Pell Grant population (43%), the program appears to serve students who need an accessible entry point to HR careers rather than those seeking top-tier outcomes.

For families prioritizing college access and debt management over maximum earnings, this program delivers. But if your child can gain admission to Michigan State or U-M Dearborn—both charging similar in-state tuition—those programs offer materially better earning potential from day one. Wayne State works as an affordable fallback, not your first choice for HR training in Michigan.