Business/Managerial Economics at Baylor University

Baylor's Business/Managerial Economics graduates see their earnings jump 30% in just three years—from $60,575 to nearly $79,000—suggesting strong career trajectory despite middle-of-the-pack starting salaries among Texas schools. While the program ranks in the 60th percentile statewide for early earnings, it outperforms the national median by about $7,300 and beats the national 75th percentile threshold. The debt load of $22,500 translates to a manageable 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates typically earn their full debt amount in just four months of work.

The real question for Texas families is whether paying slightly more in debt than the state median ($19,044) is worth it for Baylor's acceleration pattern. Most comparable Texas programs—UNT, UT Arlington, Texas State—show similar starting salaries but we don't have their four-year growth data for comparison. The rapid earnings growth here could reflect Baylor's network effects and recruiting relationships, but it could also mean graduates start in roles with steeper learning curves or clearer promotion paths.

For students who can manage near-average debt levels and don't need maximum earnings immediately after graduation, this program appears positioned well. The combination of reasonable borrowing and strong mid-term earnings growth suggests the investment pays off for graduates willing to build their careers over several years rather than seeking instant returns.