Public Health at Texas State University

Texas State's public health program sits in an interesting position: it slightly underperforms the national median ($35,564 versus $37,548 in year one), but outperforms 60% of Texas programs in a state where public health graduates typically earn less than the national average. The debt load of $26,710 is manageable relative to starting earnings, though not exceptional—you're looking at roughly nine months of gross income to cover the total debt.

The earnings trajectory tells a straightforward story: graduates see modest but steady growth, reaching $37,605 by year four. This isn't the dramatic career acceleration you'd see in some fields, but public health tends to reward experience and additional credentials over time. The 89% admission rate and relatively accessible academics suggest this program serves a broad student population, including the 36% receiving Pell grants, without sacrificing reasonable career outcomes.

The real question is what your student plans to do with this degree. Public health is increasingly credential-dependent, and these bachelor's-level earnings reflect entry-level positions in community health, health education, or program coordination. Many graduates will need a master's degree to access higher-paying roles in epidemiology or health policy—notice how UT MD Anderson's program commands nearly triple the earnings. For students planning to work immediately after graduation or pursuing a less competitive professional path, this program offers decent value at a reasonable debt level. Just understand you're paying for access to the field, not a premium credential.