Agricultural Public Services at Texas Tech University

Texas Tech's Agricultural Public Services program starts graduates at $36,134—below both the Texas median ($40,183) and well below the national median ($43,778). That 20th percentile national ranking is hard to ignore, though the manageable $20,500 debt load (19th percentile nationally) means graduates aren't drowning in payments while they build their careers. Within Texas, where you're likely comparing five in-state options, this program sits at the 40th percentile—essentially middle of the pack, though Texas A&M's program delivers 22% higher starting earnings.

The good news is the trajectory: earnings jump 45% by year four to $52,409, which is actually competitive and suggests the initial salary reflects entry-level positions in extension services or agricultural outreach that gain value with experience. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 means your child would owe roughly seven months of their first year's salary—reasonable by any measure.

Here's the practical reality: if your child is passionate about agricultural outreach and community education, this program won't saddle them with crushing debt, and their earning potential grows solidly. But if they're choosing between Agricultural Public Services programs in Texas, they should understand they're not attending the top-ranked option. The relatively accessible admission standards (71% acceptance rate) make this a viable path for students who want into ag services without needing stellar test scores, though those seeking maximum earning potential might look at College Station instead.