Parks at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
58 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
58
Optimistic
58
Base Case
53
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,116/yr (13% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (34% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (508,800 openings/yr)
ROI 14.4x earnings multiple (4.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #4 of 45 Parks programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

North Carolina State's program in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management truly stands out, reflecting the university's strong applied science tradition and its location in a dynamic growth region. You're not just learning about leisure activities; this degree emphasizes the critical operational and business aspects of managing complex recreational facilities. The Triangle area's rapid expansion means a constant demand for professionals who can oversee everything from municipal parks and greenways to private sports complexes and large event venues. Your education here will likely connect you directly with local employers like the City of Raleigh Parks & Recreation, Wake County, or even major private sector entities managing golf courses, resorts, or corporate wellness centers. The focus on *facilities management* prepares you for roles with significant responsibility, including budgeting, personnel, and operations, which explains the strong career trajectory. To maximize your opportunities, actively seek out internships that give you hands-on experience with facility operations and project management.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Parks graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $512K $511K $477K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 14.4x 14.4x 13.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.0x 4.0x 3.8x
Probability of Field Employment 42% 40% 32%
DegreeOutlook Score 58 58 53

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,580
Out-of-state: $127,068 (4.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,724
-90% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,000
6.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,810
33% growth from Year 1

About North Carolina State University at Raleigh

North Carolina State University at Raleigh admits 40% of applicants, placing it among selective institutions, with 26,389 students enrolled in Raleigh, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at North Carolina State University at Raleigh →

Top Career Paths

Facilities managers $104,690/yr
General and operations managers $102,950/yr
Entertainment and recreation managers, except gambling $77,180/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Parks at Other Schools

Other Majors at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 58/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Parks at North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
At 58/100, North Carolina State University at Raleigh's Parks program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →