Analysis
Looking at peer business economics programs across Texas, graduates typically earn around $54,000 in their first year—a solid starting point that matches both state and national benchmarks for this field. The estimated debt of roughly $18,000 represents less than four months of that first-year salary, creating a manageable financial foundation that compares favorably to the national median of $22,250 for similar degrees.
With 40% of students receiving Pell grants, Midwestern State serves a substantial population of lower-income students who often need their degree investment to pay off quickly. The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 suggests this program could deliver on that promise, though it's worth noting these figures come from similar Texas programs rather than tracked outcomes from Midwestern State's own graduates. The school's 87% admission rate means accessibility, but parents should probe what support systems exist to ensure their student actually completes the degree—unfinished credentials leave families with debt but no earnings boost.
The real question is differentiation. While comparable programs show relatively consistent outcomes across Texas institutions, families are making this choice without school-specific data to confirm whether Midwestern State's particular approach matches, exceeds, or falls short of the peer average. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable value, but speaking directly with recent alumni about their actual job placements would help validate whether this program delivers the typical Texas outcome or something different.
Where Midwestern State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/managerial economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business/Managerial Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,310 | $53,984* | — | $18,246* | — | |
| $54,844 | $60,575* | $78,948 | $22,500* | 0.37 | |
| $11,164 | $54,058* | $82,643 | $14,125* | 0.26 | |
| $11,728 | $53,984* | — | $16,063* | 0.30 | |
| $11,450 | $49,831* | $65,481 | $23,125* | 0.46 | |
| $8,991 | $44,424* | $49,224 | $18,246* | 0.41 | |
| National Median | — | $53,219* | — | $22,250* | 0.42 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/managerial economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Financial Risk Specialists
Management Analysts
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Survey Researchers
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 5 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.