Business Administration, Management and Operations at Howard Payne University

Howard Payne's business program graduates earn slightly above both the national and Texas medians, placing in the 60th percentile statewide—a respectable position that translates to about $3,000 more annually than the typical Texas business graduate. Starting at $47,000 with $25,000 in debt creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in just over half a year's salary.

The concerning pattern here is the earnings decline: graduates actually earn less four years out ($44,151) than they do fresh out of school. While some of this could reflect graduates pursuing advanced degrees or career changes, it's unusual and worth noting—though the small sample size (under 30 graduates tracked) means this could be statistical noise rather than a reliable trend.

For families weighing this option, the value depends heavily on price. At a school serving many Pell Grant students (42%), financial aid packages will vary widely. The program delivers middle-of-the-pack outcomes that won't impress compared to Texas's elite business schools, but the debt levels are reasonable and the starting salary beats most in-state peers. If your student receives substantial aid and wants a smaller college environment, this could work—just recognize you're paying for the experience, not career acceleration.