Program Analysis
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies program produces graduates earning $32,357/yr — within striking distance of the $33,731 national average for this field.
At 9.3x the cost of in-state tuition, the ten-year earnings outlook represents a strong return. Not exceptional, but meaningfully positive.
AI risk is moderate — 56% task exposure — and the 7% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $20,000 debt-to-$32,357 income ratio translates to about 7 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #44 out of 59 programs, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's financial outcomes for Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $32,357 to $46,108 shows 42% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.