Economics at Texas State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Texas State's economics graduates earn about $8,000 less than the state median and nearly $9,000 below the national benchmark in their first year. Landing in the 25th percentile statewide means three-quarters of Texas economics programs deliver stronger immediate returns. The debt load of $22,717 is reasonable and close to national norms, but when paired with below-average earnings, it creates a ratio that takes longer to overcome than at stronger programs.
The context matters here: Texas State serves a largely in-state population (36% on Pell grants) at an accessible price point, but the economics degree isn't competing well even within this segment. Nearby UT Austin graduates start at $58,717—$15,000 more annually—which compounds significantly over a career. While some of this gap reflects selectivity differences, the 18th percentile national ranking suggests the program itself may not be opening the doors economics students typically expect in finance, consulting, or policy roles.
For families seeking an affordable path to an economics degree, this program keeps debt manageable but delivers below-market outcomes. If your student is set on economics and Texas State specifically, they'll need to be aggressive about internships and networking to overcome the credential gap. Otherwise, consider stronger regional options or different majors at Texas State where the value proposition might be clearer.
Where Texas State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Texas State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Texas State University graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 18th percentile of all economics bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (26 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas State University | $43,064 | — | $22,717 | 0.53 |
| Rice University | $78,814 | $88,145 | $11,289 | 0.14 |
| Southern Methodist University | $71,630 | $74,491 | $19,500 | 0.27 |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $58,717 | $81,620 | $21,125 | 0.36 |
| Trinity University | $57,482 | $72,862 | $20,500 | 0.36 |
| University of Dallas | $55,732 | $57,745 | $24,752 | 0.44 |
| National Median | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Other Economics Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rice University Houston | $58,128 | $78,814 | $11,289 |
| Southern Methodist University Dallas | $64,460 | $71,630 | $19,500 |
| The University of Texas at Austin Austin | $11,678 | $58,717 | $21,125 |
| Trinity University San Antonio | $51,352 | $57,482 | $20,500 |
| University of Dallas Irving | $50,880 | $55,732 | $24,752 |
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 45 graduates with reported earnings and 52 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.