Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Human Resources

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

50

Schools Analyzed

$97,518

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

85%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$31,506

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a career in human resources, the choice of college can have a significant impact on future earnings. This list highlights schools known for producing graduates with strong financial outcomes in the business and marketing fields, a crucial area for HR professionals. For instance, the average earnings for graduates in this category reach nearly $100,000.

The schools on this list stand out due to their impressive graduation rates, average earnings, and manageable debt levels. With an average graduation rate of 86%, these institutions not only help students complete their degrees but also support their transition into high-paying jobs. Below, you'll find detailed earnings and debt figures that reveal the potential ROI for each school.

Take Babson College and Bentley University, for example. Babson graduates earn an impressive $123,938 on average, but they also face a higher net price of $40,514 compared to Bentley's $37,930. This contrast highlights the tradeoff between potential earnings and the cost of attendance, something every student should carefully weigh as they plan their educational path.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $97,518

Avg. graduation rate 85%

Avg. net price $31,506

Avg. median debt $21,371

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings with program concentration in Business & Marketing

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Babson College

Wellesley, MA

Earnings$123,938

Net Price$40,514

View full profile →

Bentley University

Waltham, MA

Earnings$120,959

Net Price$37,930

View full profile →

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

Earnings$114,862

Net Price$31,944

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Babson College is a place where students are likely to thrive, particularly if they have an entrepreneurial spirit. The emphasis on business education here translates into impressive median earnings of $123,938 just ten years after graduation, pointing to a strong return on investment for graduates.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Waltham, MA, Bentley University is distinguished by its strong focus on business education, evident in its 88% graduation rate. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $120,959 after ten years, reflecting the degree's value in the job market and the university's commitment to preparing students for successful careers.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University, located in Pittsburgh, PA, is known for its rigorous academic programs and a graduation rate of 93%. The university's graduates enjoy a median income of $114,862 ten years post-graduation, which speaks to the quality and demand for the education received here, especially in tech and the arts.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, indicating a commitment to student success. With a median income of $111,371 a decade after graduation, UPenn graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce, particularly in fields like business, law, and healthcare, where the university excels.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Santa Clara University ensures a strong support system for students pursuing their degrees. Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, students benefit from proximity to a thriving job market and networking opportunities with leading tech companies.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Santa's full profile

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University combines a strong academic reputation with a tight-knit community, boasting an 89% graduation rate. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, students benefit from a collaborative environment where they can engage in hands-on learning and research across various disciplines.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, with a remarkable 95% graduation rate, offers a rich academic experience in a stunning setting in Ithaca, New York. The university's commitment to research and innovation means students are often at the forefront of their fields, collaborating with faculty who are leaders in academia and industry.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, prepares students for success in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The school's median earnings at 10 years post-graduation are an impressive $108,772, suggesting that its graduates are well-positioned for lucrative careers in their fields.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College offers a strong 91% graduation rate and a vibrant campus life in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to a well-rounded education, students here are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally in a supportive environment.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta is known for its strong focus on science and engineering, reflected in its impressive 93% graduation rate. Graduates earn a median salary of $102,772 within ten years, indicating that a Georgia Tech diploma is a reliable ticket to high-paying job opportunities in technology and engineering sectors.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, located in the heart of Washington, DC, boasts a 95% graduation rate, making it a solid choice for students committed to completing their degrees. With median earnings of $103,494 ten years after graduation, the university's alumni often find themselves in rewarding careers, especially in fields like government, law, and international relations.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Notre Dame, a 96% graduation rate reflects the strong support systems in place for students. Graduates can expect median earnings of $99,980 a decade after finishing their degree, making it an attractive option for those aiming for rewarding careers, particularly in business, education, and engineering.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Claremont McKenna College maintains a strong commitment to academic excellence and student support. The school's focus on leadership, economics, and government prepares its students for impactful careers, evident from the impressive median earnings of $104,736 ten years after graduation.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

Villanova University, located in Pennsylvania, is known for its strong emphasis on community and values-based education. With a graduation rate of 92% and a focus on service and leadership, Villanova prepares students for both personal fulfillment and professional success. Graduates earn a median income of $100,423 ten years after finishing their degrees, reflecting the school’s commitment to real-world outcomes.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute emphasizes the importance of science and technology in shaping the future. Although its graduation rate is slightly lower at 83%, graduates earn a median income of $102,051 ten years after completing their studies, highlighting the potential for lucrative careers in STEM fields. This makes Rensselaer an appealing choice for students passionate about engineering and innovation.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University is a small liberal arts college with a strong focus on undergraduate education. With a graduation rate of 94%, it cultivates a close-knit community where students are encouraged to excel academically and personally. This is reflected in the median earnings of $94,810 for graduates ten years after graduation, showcasing the school’s effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

Located in Throggs Neck, NY, SUNY Maritime College specializes in marine and environmental studies, preparing students for careers in a unique and impactful field. With a 70% graduation rate, it has a tight-knit community of 1,285 students who benefit from hands-on learning experiences both in and out of the classroom.

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

SUNY's full profile

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

USC, located in Los Angeles, is a vibrant hub for students interested in a variety of disciplines, particularly in the arts, business, and technology fields. With a graduation rate of 92%, USC students benefit from a robust academic environment and extensive networking opportunities that can lead to successful careers after graduation.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University, situated in the heart of Boston, is known for its emphasis on experiential learning and co-op programs that integrate real-world experience with academic study. With a graduation rate of 90%, students here are not just earning degrees; they're gaining valuable skills that make them highly employable in various fields.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 86%, Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, cultivates an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The small, tight-knit community of just under 4,000 students fosters strong relationships with faculty and peers, enhancing the overall educational experience.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston, TX, is known for its intimate campus atmosphere, with just 4,776 students fostering close relationships between peers and faculty. With an impressive 95% graduation rate, it’s a place where academic excellence meets personal growth, allowing students to thrive in a supportive environment focused on innovation and research.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Rice's full profile

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy offers a unique educational experience focused on maritime studies and engineering. With a smaller student body of 804, the close community atmosphere allows for personalized attention and hands-on learning, making it ideal for students passionate about the marine industry.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Washington, DC, George Washington University provides students with unique opportunities to engage in politics, international affairs, and more. The university maintains an impressive graduation rate of 85%, with alumni earning a median of $90,873 just ten years after graduation.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Evanston, IL, Northwestern University is known for its academic rigor and commitment to student success, reflected in a graduation rate of 96%. The university's size, with 9,201 students, strikes a balance between a vibrant campus life and intimate learning environments, making it a great fit for those who thrive in collaborative settings.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

Bryant University

Smithfield, RI · 3,194 students · Private nonprofit

Bryant University, located in Smithfield, Rhode Island, offers a robust business education in a close-knit community. With an 80% graduation rate, students are prepared for the workforce, earning a median of $90,008 within ten years.

65% accepted 80% graduate $90,008 earnings

Bryant's full profile

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

Fairfield University in Connecticut is a private institution that combines a strong academic reputation with a friendly campus environment. The school's median earnings at 10 years post-graduation stand at $88,794, indicating that graduates tend to find well-paying jobs, which is crucial for students looking to invest in their education.

33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings

Fairfield's full profile

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

The University of San Francisco occupies a prime location in one of California’s most vibrant cities, providing students with numerous opportunities for networking and internships. With a graduation rate of 71%, it’s not the highest, but the median earnings of $89,812 at ten years show that students who graduate do quite well in the job market, particularly in the tech and business sectors.

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis is known for its commitment to academic excellence, evident in its 94% graduation rate. The university fosters a nurturing environment where students can explore their passions, leading to median earnings of $86,182 a decade post-graduation.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

Providence College

Providence, RI · 4,229 students · Private nonprofit

Providence College in Rhode Island offers a unique blend of academic rigor and community engagement. With an impressive graduation rate of 87% and median earnings of $87,054 within ten years, students have strong potential for success after they leave campus. The college's focus on liberal arts education encourages critical thinking and personal growth, making it a great fit for those who value a well-rounded academic experience.

51% accepted 87% graduate $87,054 earnings

Providence's full profile

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on engineering and technology, Milwaukee School of Engineering cultivates a hands-on approach that appeals to students eager to dive into practical learning. The school is home to about 2,654 students, fostering a tight-knit community where collaboration is key to success.

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

Maine Maritime Academy offers a unique blend of maritime-focused education and hands-on training, drawing students interested in careers at sea or in maritime industries. With around 942 students, this public school maintains a close community that fosters teamwork and real-world experience in a variety of nautical fields.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Maine's full profile

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · 2,196 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 74% and median earnings of $89,696 within ten years, Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY, presents an appealing option for students interested in engineering, business, and the sciences. The school emphasizes hands-on experience and collaboration, which helps students connect their classroom learning to real-world applications.

77% accepted 74% graduate $89,696 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · 5,671 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in sunny San Diego, the University of San Diego combines a stunning campus with a commitment to academic excellence, attracting about 5,671 students. The school stands out for its high graduation rate of 83%, reflecting a supportive community that prioritizes student success.

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

Case Western Reserve University, located in Cleveland, OH, is recognized for its robust academic programs, boasting an impressive 87% graduation rate among its 6,437 students. The median earnings for graduates ten years after completing their degree is $87,989, showcasing the university’s focus on preparing students for successful careers.

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

Case's full profile

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

If you’re looking for a dynamic academic environment, the University of California-Berkeley may be the place. With a graduation rate of 93%, this university supports students in their journey, leading to impressive outcomes. The campus culture is vibrant, reflecting the diverse background of its 33,068 students who are eager to engage in both learning and community service.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Cambridge, MIT is synonymous with innovation and rigor in technology and science education. With a graduation rate of 96%, students are not just accepted; they succeed in a challenging academic environment that fosters groundbreaking ideas and research.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is a hub of innovation and academic excellence in Stanford, CA. Known for its rigorous programs and vibrant campus life, it boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 92%. Here, students engage with world-class faculty and resources that foster critical thinking and creativity.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University, a bustling urban campus in Boston, MA, serves a diverse student body of 18,248, making it a vibrant place for learning and growth. With an impressive 89% graduation rate, students here benefit from a robust academic environment, and the median earnings stand at $83,238 ten years after graduation.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · 21,996 students · Public

California Polytechnic State University, located in beautiful San Luis Obispo, has a strong reputation for its hands-on learning and engineering programs. With a graduation rate of 86%, students here are well-prepared to enter the workforce, and they enjoy median earnings of about $90,768 within a decade of graduating.

31% accepted 86% graduate $90,768 earnings

California's full profile

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Emory University demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in Atlanta, it offers a vibrant campus life that encourages academic and personal growth, making it a place where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Emory's full profile

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · 10,512 students · Private nonprofit

59% accepted 81% graduate $85,569 earnings

Fordham's full profile

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

New's full profile

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on health sciences, MCPHS University in Boston is an appealing choice for students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. The university has a diverse student body of 3,451, and its acceptance rate of 85% suggests a welcoming environment for prospective students.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

MCPHS's full profile

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers a specialized education aimed at preparing students for careers in pharmacy and health sciences. With a graduation rate of 68% and a welcoming acceptance rate of 53%, this college fosters an environment where students can thrive while receiving a focused education.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA · 4,948 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Philadelphia, Saint Joseph's University offers a vibrant community with a focus on student engagement and a diverse array of programs. Its 79% graduation rate indicates that students are well-supported throughout their studies, while the median earnings of $86,881 at 10 years reflects the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers.

89% accepted 79% graduate $86,881 earnings

Saint's full profile

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA · 3,553 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 84% graduate $82,939 earnings

Pepperdine's full profile

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

New's full profile

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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