Analysis
Texas computer software programs show a puzzling earnings pattern—some graduates launch into $80,000+ positions while others start around $34,000. Based on comparable programs in the state, LeTourneau's estimated first-year earnings of $35,000 fall in the middle of this range, though notably behind the program at Texas A&M. The estimated debt of $25,603 is actually lower than both the state median ($34,092) and national median ($27,000), which helps offset the modest starting salary.
The 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment, but there's a catch: the wide variation in Texas outcomes means the actual experience could differ substantially. The school's selective admissions (41% acceptance rate, 1262 average SAT) and low Pell enrollment (13%) indicate LeTourneau draws academically prepared students, yet we're working with estimates derived from peer programs rather than tracking where this program's own graduates actually land. That uncertainty matters when comparable Texas programs produce outcomes ranging from $32,000 to $83,000.
If your child attends, focus on internships and concrete skill-building from day one—the software field rewards demonstrated capability more than credentials alone. The debt load won't be crushing, but you'll want confirmation that graduates actually secure the professional software positions these estimates assume, not adjacent tech support roles that pay considerably less.
Where LeTourneau University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer software and media applications bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Computer Software and Media Applications bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,500 | $34,994* | — | $25,603* | — | |
| — | $83,476* | $57,111 | $44,225* | 0.53 | |
| $13,099 | $35,991* | $52,454 | $20,937* | 0.58 | |
| $9,711 | $33,997* | $50,449 | $23,959* | 0.70 | |
| $17,488 | $32,159* | $38,887 | $48,849* | 1.52 | |
| National Median | — | $38,234* | — | $27,000* | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer software and media applications graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Special Effects Artists and Animators
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 LeTourneau 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.