Analysis
Nelson University's business associate degree saddles students with nearly double the typical debt while delivering below-average earnings. At $30,480, graduates carry more debt than 95% of comparable programs nationwide—over twice the national median of $13,980 and nearly double what Texas programs typically charge ($16,045). Meanwhile, first-year earnings of $32,751 fall slightly below both state and national medians, landing in the 40th percentile among Texas programs.
The debt load becomes particularly stark when compared to Texas community colleges offering the same credential. Tarrant County College District graduates earn $43,700—33% more—while Dallas College and Lone Star College System also significantly outpace Nelson's outcomes. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.93, graduates face nearly a full year's salary in student loans, making the monthly payments challenging on an entry-level business salary.
For families considering a business associate degree in Texas, the local community college system offers substantially better value. The combination of Nelson's premium pricing and modest earnings outcomes creates financial pressure that students at nearby alternatives simply don't face. Unless there are compelling personal reasons to attend Nelson specifically, the numbers suggest looking elsewhere for this particular credential.
Where Nelson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Nelson University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business Administration, Management and Operations associates's programs at peer institutions in Texas (63 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Nelson UniversityWaxahachie | $18,610 | $32,751 | — | $30,480 | 0.93 |
 Tarrant County College DistrictFort Worth | $1,728 | $43,700 | $45,749 | $17,750 | 0.41 |
 Dallas CollegeDallas | $2,370 | $42,440 | $43,743 | $15,016 | 0.35 |
 Lone Star College SystemThe Woodlands | $3,090 | $41,126 | $38,885 | $17,170 | 0.42 |
 Grayson CollegeDenison | $2,910 | $38,866 | — | $6,750 | 0.17 |
 Northwest Vista CollegeSan Antonio | $3,412 | $36,713 | $39,078 | $9,500 | 0.26 |
| National Median | — | $33,977 | — | $13,980 | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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 Nelson University, approximately 50% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 30 graduates with reported earnings and 42 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.