Accounting at Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State delivers solid accounting outcomes at a price point that makes sense for most families. The $22,291 median debt sits right at Texas's state average, while first-year earnings of $52,772 beat 60% of Texas accounting programs—a meaningful achievement given that many in-state competitors charge significantly more. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 means graduates owe less than half their starting salary, comfortably below the threshold where payments become burdensome.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story about career progression: graduates see their pay jump 21% to nearly $64,000 by year four, suggesting employers value the skills and connections these students develop. Yes, the elite private universities in Texas (TCU, SMU, Baylor) show higher starting salaries in the $68-72k range, but they typically come with substantially higher tuition costs that can offset the earnings advantage. With 40% of students receiving Pell grants, Sam Houston serves many first-generation college students who need both affordability and reliable career outcomes.

For families weighing in-state options, this program threads the needle nicely: above-median results without premium pricing. Graduates enter the workforce with manageable debt and earnings that support a middle-class lifestyle from day one, then see meaningful salary growth as they establish their careers.