Business Administration, Management and Operations at American InterContinental University-Houston
Associate's Degree
Analysis
American InterContinental University-Houston's business program produces graduates who earn significantly less than typical business associates nationwide, placing in just the 30th percentile nationally and 40th percentile within Texas. Starting salaries of $30,000 trail the national median by nearly $4,000 and fall well short of top Texas programs like Tarrant County College, where graduates earn $43,700. Even after four years, earnings only reach $33,289—still below what most business associates earn right out of graduation elsewhere.
The debt burden tells a more positive story, with graduates owing $27,875 compared to a national median of nearly $14,000 for similar programs. However, this creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.93, meaning graduates owe nearly a full year's salary. While this ratio isn't catastrophic, it's concerning given the below-average earning potential. The 77% Pell grant rate suggests this program serves many lower-income students who may struggle with even moderate debt levels.
For parents considering this program, the math is straightforward: your child would likely earn more with less debt at numerous Texas community colleges offering the same degree. Unless there are compelling personal circumstances that make AIU-Houston the only viable option, other Texas schools offer substantially better value in this field.
Where American InterContinental University-Houston Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations associates's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How American InterContinental University-Houston graduates compare to all programs nationally
American InterContinental University-Houston graduates earn $30k, placing them in the 30th percentile of all business administration, management and operations associates programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business Administration, Management and Operations associates's programs at peer institutions in Texas (63 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American InterContinental University-Houston | $29,996 | $33,289 | $27,875 | 0.93 |
| Tarrant County College District | $43,700 | $45,749 | $17,750 | 0.41 |
| Dallas College | $42,440 | $43,743 | $15,016 | 0.35 |
| Lone Star College System | $41,126 | $38,885 | $17,170 | 0.42 |
| Grayson College | $38,866 | — | $6,750 | 0.17 |
| Northwest Vista College | $36,713 | $39,078 | $9,500 | 0.26 |
| National Median | $33,977 | — | $13,980 | 0.41 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarrant County College District Fort Worth | $1,728 | $43,700 | $17,750 |
| Dallas College Dallas | $2,370 | $42,440 | $15,016 |
| Lone Star College System The Woodlands | $3,090 | $41,126 | $17,170 |
| Grayson College Denison | $2,910 | $38,866 | $6,750 |
| Northwest Vista College San Antonio | $3,412 | $36,713 | $9,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At American InterContinental University-Houston, approximately 77% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 406 graduates with reported earnings and 896 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.