Business Administration, Management and Operations at Houston Christian University

Houston Christian University's business program starts graduates at nearly $40,000—below both the Texas median ($44,084) and national average ($45,703)—though earnings do climb 23% to reach about $49,000 by year four. With over 90 business programs in Texas to choose from, this one lands right in the middle at the 40th percentile statewide, meaning six in ten Texas schools produce higher-earning business graduates. The $23,500 debt load is manageable, giving graduates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59, which means first-year income covers the debt nearly twice over.

The challenge here is opportunity cost: Top Texas business programs like TCU ($72,000) and UT Austin ($66,000) produce graduates earning 40-50% more right out of the gate. Even mid-tier options significantly outpace Houston Christian's outcomes. For a family considering this program, the key question is whether the smaller, faith-based environment justifies the earnings gap—because financially, this represents a below-average return compared to other business degrees in the state.

One important caveat: these numbers come from a small graduating class (under 30 students), so individual outcomes could vary considerably. If your child has other solid business school options in Texas, those deserve serious consideration. This program works best for students who specifically want Houston Christian's environment and aren't primarily focused on maximizing early-career earnings.