Analysis
Funeral service is one of those steady, practical fields where the math usually works—and for San Antonio College's program, the estimated numbers suggest it likely follows that pattern. Based on comparable mortuary science programs nationally, graduates might expect around $44,695 in first-year earnings against roughly $17,000 in debt. That 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio is quite manageable, meaning you'd owe less than 40% of a year's salary.
Texas has only five schools offering this associate's degree, and the reported outcomes from programs like Commonwealth Institute and Dallas Institute range from about $41,000 to $46,000 in first-year earnings—a fairly tight spread that suggests the field offers consistent entry-level pay regardless of which school you attend. San Antonio College's estimated figures fall right in the middle of that range. The estimated debt load here is actually lower than the state median of about $16,000, which matters for a career where earnings tend to remain stable rather than skyrocket over time.
The practical reality: mortuary science provides a clear path to middle-class work with minimal debt risk. While we can't know this specific program's exact outcomes, similar programs produce graduates who enter a recession-resistant field with reasonable financial footing. For students interested in this profession, the numbers suggest San Antonio College delivers what you'd expect—solid training without excessive borrowing.
Where San Antonio College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all funeral service and mortuary science associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Funeral Service and Mortuary Science associates's programs at peer institutions in Texas (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,412 | $44,695* | — | $17,063* | — | |
| $15,313 | $46,268* | $39,036 | $11,625* | 0.25 | |
| $13,496 | $40,962* | $39,428 | $20,000* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | — | $44,695* | — | $20,000* | 0.45 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with funeral service and mortuary science graduates
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 San Antonio College, approximately 34% 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 national median of 23 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.