Physics at Hardin-Simmons University

A $23,000 debt load represents a manageable starting point, but the estimated first-year earnings of around $39,000—based on comparable physics programs across Texas—lag well behind the national median of $47,700 for physics bachelor's graduates. That gap matters. Similar programs at Texas Tech and Texas A&M place graduates earning $53,000-$57,000 in their first year, suggesting that not all physics degrees deliver equivalent market outcomes. Whether that difference stems from employer preferences, research opportunities, or regional job networks isn't clear from the data, but it's a real factor to consider.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 falls within reasonable territory, meaning loan payments shouldn't consume an outsized portion of early paychecks. Physics graduates typically see strong long-term earnings growth, so this initial number may understate the program's ultimate value. Still, when you're choosing between programs with similar estimated debt but potentially different earning trajectories, that starting salary difference compounds over time. The question becomes whether Hardin-Simmons offers specific advantages—mentorship, research access, smaller classes—that justify accepting lower initial earnings compared to larger state universities.

Given the school's 97% admission rate and the lack of actual outcome data for this specific program, you're making an educated guess based on peer institutions. If your child is set on physics and values a smaller campus environment, verify what portion of recent graduates have moved into physics-related careers versus other fields. That reality check matters more than estimated medians.