Analysis
Baylor's mechanical engineering program commands a premium price point—$27,000 in median debt—but delivers strong returns that justify the investment. Starting salaries of $75,726 place graduates well above both the national median ($70,744) and Texas median ($66,678), while the debt load remains remarkably manageable with a 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's exceptionally low debt for the salary level achieved.
The program's performance within Texas is particularly noteworthy. At the 60th percentile statewide, Baylor graduates earn competitively with peers from flagship programs like Texas A&M ($77,785) and outpace most other state options. The $9,000 premium over the typical Texas mechanical engineering graduate represents real purchasing power. Growth to $83,751 by year four shows consistent career progression, not just an inflated starting number.
For parents weighing options, this represents a clear path to strong middle-class earnings without excessive debt burden. The relatively low debt percentile (5th nationally) means most engineering students elsewhere are borrowing significantly more for comparable or lower outcomes. The moderate sample size suggests consistent results across cohorts. If your student is admitted and mechanical engineering is the goal, this program delivers measurable value.
Where Baylor University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Baylor University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baylor University | $75,726 | $83,751 | +11% |
| Lamar University | $68,359 | $93,563 | +37% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $82,227 | $92,067 | +12% |
| Southern Methodist University | $79,280 | $92,000 | +16% |
| Rice University | $82,899 | $89,547 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Mechanical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Baylor UniversityWaco | $54,844 | $75,726 | $83,751 | $27,000 | 0.36 |
 Rice UniversityHouston | $58,128 | $82,899 | $89,547 | $15,375 | 0.19 |
 The University of Texas at AustinAustin | $11,678 | $82,227 | $92,067 | $18,750 | 0.23 |
 Southern Methodist UniversityDallas | $64,460 | $79,280 | $92,000 | $17,708 | 0.22 |
 West Texas A & M UniversityCanyon | $9,101 | $78,028 | $80,251 | $21,125 | 0.27 |
 Texas A&M University-College StationCollege Station | $13,099 | $77,785 | $86,346 | $19,500 | 0.25 |
| National Median | — | $70,744 | — | $24,755 | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mechanical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Aerospace Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
Fuel Cell Engineers
Automotive Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Cost Estimators
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 Baylor University, approximately 13% 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 79 graduates with reported earnings and 78 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.