Analysis
A business degree from Midwestern State appears positioned in the middle tier of Texas options, though we're working with estimates drawn from comparable programs statewide. Similar business bachelor's programs in Texas typically lead to first-year earnings around $46,000 and debt near $24,000—figures that suggest a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52. That's a debt load a graduate could reasonably tackle on a typical business salary, taking roughly six months of gross income to cover.
The four-year earnings figure of $47,239 offers a more concrete data point for this specific program, showing modest growth but also highlighting a potential concern: peer business programs in Texas range dramatically, from mid-$40,000s at regional schools to over $90,000 at UT Austin. The gap matters because business is a credential where institutional reputation and alumni networks significantly influence career trajectories. Midwestern State's 87% admission rate and substantial Pell population (40%) suggest it serves a different market than flagship competitors, which likely explains the more modest outcomes.
For families evaluating whether this represents solid value, the key question is opportunity cost. The estimated debt burden won't crush a graduate, but the earnings plateau evident between years one and four—combined with how far behind top-tier programs this sits—means students should have realistic expectations about career ceiling. This works for students seeking affordable access to business fundamentals in North Texas, less so for those targeting corporate finance or consulting roles where pedigree drives hiring.
Where Midwestern State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midwestern State University | — | $47,239 | — |
| Baylor University | $74,886 | $90,608 | +21% |
| Southwestern University | $47,056 | $76,367 | +62% |
| Concordia University Texas | $60,641 | $71,368 | +18% |
| University of Houston-Clear Lake | $56,494 | $70,808 | +25% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (41 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,310 | $45,899* | $47,239 | $23,750* | — | |
| $11,678 | $94,041* | — | —* | — | |
| $54,844 | $74,886* | $90,608 | $15,000* | 0.20 | |
| $36,690 | $60,641* | $71,368 | $38,138* | 0.63 | |
| $17,488 | $57,020* | $56,664 | $47,236* | 0.83 | |
| $7,746 | $56,494* | $70,808 | $23,766* | 0.42 | |
| National Median | — | $47,506* | — | $26,000* | 0.55 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/commerce graduates
Sales Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Construction Managers
Administrative Services Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Chief Executives
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 Midwestern State University, approximately 40% 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 24 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.