Analysis
In Texas, agricultural business programs range widely in outcomes—from Tarleton State's $45,097 first-year earnings to West Texas A&M's $52,749. Based on comparable programs across the state, Angelo State graduates can expect to earn around $49,200 in their first year, placing them solidly in the middle of this range and slightly above the national median for the field. That's a reasonable start for someone entering the agricultural sector, though hardly spectacular.
The estimated $20,300 in debt yields a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41, meaning graduates would owe roughly five months of their first year's salary. This aligns closely with both state and national debt medians for agricultural business degrees, suggesting Angelo State offers typical borrowing levels for this credential. While West Texas A&M shows it's possible to earn more in this field within Texas, Angelo State's estimates don't raise red flags about overpricing.
The real question is whether your child has genuine interest in agriculture—not just the business side in theory, but the industry itself. Agricultural business careers typically involve early mornings, rural locations, and seasonal volatility, realities that make the moderate earnings more challenging. If they're committed to this sector, these estimates suggest Angelo State provides acceptable preparation without excessive debt. If they're uncertain about agriculture specifically, other business degrees might offer more flexibility.
Where Angelo State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all agricultural business and management bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Agricultural Business and Management bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,319 | $49,208* | — | $20,313* | — | |
| $9,101 | $52,749* | $55,175 | $19,125* | 0.36 | |
| $13,099 | $50,509* | $63,533 | $20,125* | 0.40 | |
| $11,852 | $50,509* | $71,893 | $19,588* | 0.39 | |
| $9,228 | $47,907* | $55,294 | $20,643* | 0.43 | |
| $7,878 | $45,097* | $49,434 | $21,500* | 0.48 | |
| National Median | — | $48,338* | — | $20,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with agricultural business and management graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers
Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products
Computer User Support Specialists
Buyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products
Farm and Home Management Educators
First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers
First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
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 Angelo State University, approximately 27% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 6 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.