Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Human Resources

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

Schools Analyzed

$54,723

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

54%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$7,289

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

When considering a degree in Human Resources, affordability is often a primary concern. The schools on this list excel at providing quality education without overwhelming financial burdens, making them appealing options for prospective students. For instance, the average net price across these institutions is just $4,020, significantly lower than the national average for public colleges.

The standout schools here not only prioritize affordability but also deliver solid outcomes related to earnings and graduation rates. The average earnings for graduates from these programs is $54,271, while the average graduation rate sits at 51%. This data illustrates the balance between cost and the potential return on investment students can expect, helping families make informed choices about their education.

Take CUNY Bernard M Baruch College and CUNY Brooklyn College as examples. Baruch boasts impressive earnings of $75,971 and a graduation rate of 72%, while Brooklyn lags with earnings of $60,752 and a graduation rate of just 55%. This contrast highlights the importance of evaluating not just costs, but also the long-term benefits of attending these institutions.

Key Findings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates earn an average of $75,971, the highest on the list.

CUNY Brooklyn College has a lower graduation rate at 55%, compared to Baruch’s 72%.

The average net price across the top schools is only $4,020, making them financially accessible.

Graduates from these programs earn an average of $54,271, indicating a solid return on investment.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $54,723

Avg. graduation rate 54%

Avg. net price $7,289

Avg. median debt $16,096

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability 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

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY

Graduation55%

Earnings$60,752

Net Price$3,103

View full profile →

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY

Graduation50%

Earnings$58,013

Net Price$3,148

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of over 16,000, CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College in New York City is known for its strong focus on business and public affairs. The college’s median earnings after ten years reach $75,971, which highlights the potential for graduates to secure solid financial footing in the workforce.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College, nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, is home to over 10,500 students who enjoy a vibrant campus life and a diverse array of programs. With a median earnings figure of $60,752 a decade post-graduation, students can anticipate a solid return on their investment, especially in a city that offers numerous job opportunities.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College, located in the Bronx, serves over 10,600 students and emphasizes a supportive educational environment. Graduates earn a median income of $58,013 after ten years, reflecting the college's focus on practical programs that connect education to real-world careers.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Located in the heart of Manhattan, CUNY Hunter College attracts 16,289 students with its unique blend of urban opportunity and academic rigor. The graduation rate sits at 59%, reflecting the college's commitment to helping students succeed, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds, as evidenced by the 56% of students who receive Pell Grants.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College is home to a diverse student body of 12,550, making it a vibrant hub for learning in New York City. With a 56% graduation rate, the college offers a supportive environment for students from various backgrounds, particularly for the 47% of undergraduates receiving Pell Grants seeking an affordable education.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida is a large public university with 35,629 students, known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life in Gainesville. With a remarkable 91% graduation rate, the university supports students in achieving their educational goals, although its 24% Pell Grant recipient rate indicates it also attracts a diverse socioeconomic mix of students.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

CUNY York College, nestled in Jamaica, NY, offers a close-knit community for its 4,345 students. Despite a lower graduation rate of 31%, the college is dedicated to fostering personal growth and academic success, particularly for those seeking an affordable education in a supportive environment with a 64% acceptance rate.

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

The University of Florida-Online serves nearly 4,600 students and offers a flexible learning environment ideal for those balancing other commitments. An impressive graduation rate of 81% reflects the institution's commitment to student success, while median earnings of $71,588 after ten years suggest strong career outcomes for graduates navigating the job market.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University stands out with a high graduation rate of 74%, reflecting its commitment to student success and support. Graduates can expect median earnings of $60,249 a decade after leaving, showcasing the university's effectiveness in preparing students for lucrative careers in a vibrant city like Miami.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#10

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY · 3,233 students · Public

CUNY Medgar Evers College, located in Brooklyn, New York, serves a diverse student body with an acceptance rate of 86%. While the graduation rate is lower at 21%, the college offers students a unique opportunity to be part of a vibrant urban culture and to engage with a variety of community resources and support systems.

86% accepted 21% graduate $46,498 earnings

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

With a diverse student body of nearly 24,000, Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton is a hub for students looking to thrive in a vibrant academic environment. The university’s location near the beach and the lively atmosphere of South Florida make it an appealing choice for those who value both education and lifestyle.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#12

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK · 941 students · Public

Nestled in Chickasha, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is home to just 941 students, making it a unique place for those seeking a personalized college experience. With a graduation rate of 41% and a strong focus on liberal arts, this institution may appeal to students who prioritize a well-rounded education in a more intimate setting. The campus fosters a sense of community that can be beneficial for student engagement and collaboration.

66% accepted 41% graduate $41,913 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Durant, OK · 3,018 students · Public

With a 76% acceptance rate, Southeastern Oklahoma State University is an accessible choice for many students looking to further their education. The small campus atmosphere, home to about 3,018 students, encourages close relationships between faculty and peers, which can enhance the college experience and support academic success.

76% accepted 32% graduate $45,079 earnings

Southeastern's full profile

#14

Texas A & M International University

Laredo, TX · 6,667 students · Public

With about 6,667 students, Texas A&M International University in Laredo is shaping future leaders with its strong focus on international education and cultural diversity. The school is committed to supporting first-generation college students, which is reflected in its 65% Pell Grant recipient rate, ensuring that a wide range of students feel welcomed and valued on campus.

44% accepted 48% graduate $48,386 earnings

CUNY City College

New York, NY · 12,505 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY City College is a vibrant hub for over 12,500 students seeking a diverse and enriching educational experience. The school’s commitment to accessibility is evident with a 60% acceptance rate, making it a viable option for many aspiring students looking to thrive in one of the country’s most dynamic cities.

60% accepted 56% graduate $66,039 earnings

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY · 8,246 students · Public

With over 8,200 students, Northern Kentucky University in Highland Heights offers a vibrant campus life combined with a commitment to student success. The school has a diverse student body, with 25% of its students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its accessibility for individuals from lower-income backgrounds. The 50% graduation rate suggests that many students find their path and complete their degrees, setting them up for future success.

68% accepted 50% graduate $50,220 earnings

Northern's full profile

#17

Indiana University-Kokomo

Kokomo, IN · 2,352 students · Public

With a smaller student body of 2,352, Indiana University-Kokomo offers a close-knit community for learning in Kokomo, Indiana. However, it faces challenges, as indicated by a graduation rate of 45%. The college is an affordable option for many, with an acceptance rate of 86% and a significant percentage of students receiving Pell Grants, which shows its commitment to accessibility.

86% accepted 45% graduate $49,917 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#18

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

The University of South Florida in Tampa is a bustling campus with over 37,000 students, making it a vibrant place to learn and grow. Its graduation rate of 76% reflects a solid support system that helps students navigate their academic journeys while offering a diverse range of programs and activities to enrich their college experience.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College in Kentucky offers a unique approach to higher education, emphasizing a no-tuition model that enables students to graduate debt-free. With an acceptance rate of just 19%, Berea attracts motivated students who are ready to engage in a rigorous academic environment while benefiting from a strong sense of community among its 1,513 students.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

Dalton State College

Dalton, GA · 4,553 students · Public

Dalton State College presents an inviting option for students in search of a close-knit educational experience. With a 50% Pell Grant recipient rate and a student body of 4,553, the college emphasizes accessibility, catering to those who may need additional financial support to pursue their studies.

28% graduate $40,251 earnings

Dalton's full profile

#21

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI · 8,106 students · Public

91% accepted 47% graduate $54,735 earnings

Ferris's full profile

#22

University of Puerto Rico-Aguadilla

Aguadilla, PR · 1,883 students · Public

Nestled in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, the University of Puerto Rico-Aguadilla is a smaller campus that cultivates a close-knit community among its 1,883 students. Despite its challenges, the university has a strong commitment to serving its students, with a notable 83% of them qualifying for Pell Grants.

81% accepted 47% graduate $27,997 earnings

University's full profile

#23

Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI · 12,351 students · Public

88% accepted 57% graduate $58,612 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#24

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

64% accepted 46% graduate $40,026 earnings

Elizabeth's full profile

#25

Christian Brothers University

Memphis, TN · 905 students · Private nonprofit

Tucked away in Memphis, Christian Brothers University fosters a close-knit community with around 905 students. The graduation rate is 55%, and graduates report median earnings of $57,478 ten years post-graduation, highlighting a solid return on investment for students willing to engage in their education.

87% accepted 55% graduate $57,478 earnings

Christian's full profile

#26

Marshall University

Huntington, WV · 7,266 students · Public

96% accepted 50% graduate $46,354 earnings

Marshall's full profile

#27

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#28

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

The University of North Florida, located in Jacksonville, stands out with a graduation rate of 69%, signaling that students here are finding success in completing their degrees. With 13,359 students, it offers a lively campus atmosphere and ample opportunities for engagement and growth. This school caters to a diverse student population, with 31% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its dedication to accessibility and inclusion.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#29

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

With a vibrant campus located in Orlando, the University of Central Florida serves a massive student body of over 59,000. The graduation rate stands at 77%, and graduates see a median earning of $58,308 a decade after finishing their degrees, which speaks to the school's commitment to student success and workforce readiness.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#30

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University in Tallahassee is home to a robust academic community, with a graduation rate of 84% that speaks to its supportive environment. With 32,212 students, the campus is lively yet intimate, allowing for meaningful connections and opportunities for collaboration among peers and professors alike.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#31

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#32

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, NC · 5,762 students · Public

82% accepted 37% graduate $40,144 earnings

Fayetteville's full profile

#33

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 19,562 students · Public

California State University-Los Angeles is a vibrant campus located in the heart of Los Angeles, serving over 19,500 students. With a diverse student body, 66% of whom are Pell Grant recipients, the university is committed to accessibility and inclusivity, making it an appealing choice for many families seeking an affordable education in a dynamic urban environment.

91% accepted 53% graduate $59,211 earnings

California's full profile

#34

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings

Portland's full profile

#35

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology is a powerhouse in Atlanta, serving nearly 19,000 students with a graduation rate of an impressive 93%. Graduates can expect a median income of $102,772 ten years after graduation, which places them among the highest earners from any institution, signaling both quality education and strong career prospects.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#37

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

California State University-Fullerton is home to more than 38,500 students and boasts a vibrant campus culture in sunny Southern California. Known for its strong graduation rate of 70%, the university offers a variety of programs that attract a diverse student population, including 48% who receive Pell Grants.

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California's full profile

#38

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

With an acceptance rate of 92%, the College of Staten Island CUNY welcomes a diverse student body and offers a unique opportunity for those looking to thrive in an urban environment. While the graduation rate stands at 33%, the median earnings of $53,501 a decade after graduation suggest that many students find pathways to success in their careers.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

#39

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA · 15,023 students · Public

California State University-San Bernardino attracts students with its affordable education and promising graduation rate of 55%. The median earnings after ten years are $59,977, indicating that graduates are entering the workforce with solid earning potential, particularly in a region with a growing job market.

94% accepted 55% graduate $59,977 earnings

California's full profile

#40

Clayton State University

Morrow, GA · 4,348 students · Public

68% accepted 38% graduate $49,179 earnings

Clayton's full profile

#41

Murray State University

Murray, KY · 6,688 students · Public

86% accepted 60% graduate $44,737 earnings

Murray's full profile

#42

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX · 8,150 students · Public

86% accepted 37% graduate $49,652 earnings

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX · 28,666 students · Public

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley serves a large student body of nearly 29,000, making it a central fixture in the Edinburg community. It emphasizes affordable education, with a striking acceptance rate of 94%, and is particularly supportive of low-income students, as seen in its 65% Pell Grant recipient rate.

94% accepted 50% graduate $49,620 earnings

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#46

Northwestern Oklahoma State University

Alva, OK · 1,498 students · Public

65% accepted 33% graduate $44,358 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#47

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

Tifton, GA · 3,208 students · Public

76% accepted 33% graduate $34,996 earnings

Abraham's full profile

#48

California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, CA · 8,385 students · Public

California State University-Stanislaus, located in Turlock, California, welcomes students into a welcoming and diverse environment. The university successfully fosters a community spirit and encourages student involvement both in and out of the classroom, making it a solid choice for those looking to make lasting connections during their college years.

98% accepted 56% graduate $63,188 earnings

California's full profile

#49

CUNY New York City College of Technology

Brooklyn, NY · 13,580 students · Public

CUNY New York City College of Technology is an ideal choice for students looking for a unique urban experience in Brooklyn, New York. With a strong focus on applied education, the college prepares students for various technical and creative careers, making it a fitting environment for those eager to dive into the workforce after graduation.

80% accepted 20% graduate $49,365 earnings

University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon

Bayamon, PR · 2,851 students · Public

In Bayamon, Puerto Rico, the University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon offers an inviting option for students seeking a supportive community. With a graduation rate of 34%, the focus here is on helping students overcome obstacles through tailored resources, particularly for those who might need extra academic support.

35% accepted 34% graduate $34,409 earnings

University's full profile

Looking at the data, a surprising trend emerges when comparing CUNY Lehman College and the University of Florida-Online. Lehman has a lower graduation rate of 50% and average earnings of $58,013, while Florida-Online offers a much higher graduation rate of 81% and earnings of $71,588. This suggests that while both schools are affordable, Florida-Online may provide better support for students to complete their degrees and enter the workforce successfully.

Now that you've scrolled through 50 schools, it's crucial to consider how this data aligns with your priorities. Think about factors like location, program focus, and campus culture. For example, if attending a school close to home is a priority, you might favor a school like CUNY Brooklyn College despite its lower earnings potential. Weigh these metrics against your situation to find the best fit.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable career is influenced by these choices. Families face a significant decision: invest in an affordable education that leads to better job prospects or risk taking on debt for potentially lower returns. By examining the data, families can feel more confident in making a choice that aligns with their financial and professional goals.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

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). →

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.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility