Business Administration, Management and Operations at Texas State University
Bachelor's Degree
txst.eduAnalysis
Texas State's business program delivers solid value through a combination of lower debt and steady earnings growth. With graduates owing just $20,500 compared to the national median of $26,000, students here take on significantly less financial risk while still achieving earnings that outpace most Texas business programs. At the 60th percentile among Texas schools, this program performs better than the majority of in-state competitors while keeping debt well below the state median of $24,250.
The earnings trajectory shows why this program works for many students. Starting salaries of $45,306 grow to $57,305 by year fourโa healthy 27% increase that demonstrates career mobility. While top-tier Texas programs like UT Austin and TCU produce higher starting salaries, they typically come with substantially more debt and admission uncertainty. Texas State's 89% admission rate means most qualified students can access this program.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 puts graduates in a manageable financial position from day one. For families seeking a business degree that balances cost, accessibility, and career outcomes, Texas State offers a practical path to the middle class without the financial strain of elite alternatives. This is particularly compelling for in-state students who can leverage Texas's strong job market while avoiding excessive debt loads.
Where Texas State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Texas State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas State University | $45,306 | $57,305 | +26% |
| Southern Methodist University | $60,659 | $105,314 | +74% |
| Texas Christian University | $71,984 | $93,488 | +30% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $66,289 | $79,482 | +20% |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | $59,306 | $73,138 | +23% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (94 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,450 | $45,306 | $57,305 | $20,500 | 0.45 | |
| $57,220 | $71,984 | $93,488 | $25,000 | 0.35 | |
| $11,678 | $66,289 | $79,482 | $20,750 | 0.31 | |
| $35,500 | $65,144 | $63,561 | $39,668 | 0.61 | |
| $54,844 | $63,438 | $69,489 | $22,866 | 0.36 | |
| $64,460 | $60,659 | $105,314 | $19,500 | 0.32 | |
| National Median | โ | $45,703 | โ | $26,000 | 0.57 |
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 Texas State University, approximately 36% 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 525 graduates with reported earnings and 509 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.