Est. Earnings (1yr)
$67,911
Est. from national median (47 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$25,832
Est. from national median (18 programs)

Analysis

Texas has fourteen engineering programs, and while we can't see this specific program's outcomes, comparable bachelor's programs across the state typically produce first-year earnings around $68,800—with graduates from similar programs at other Texas schools reporting a range from about $64,000 to $74,000. The estimated debt load of $26,000 sits close to what engineering graduates nationally carry, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 that's manageable for an engineering degree where salaries tend to grow steadily.

What matters here is Texas Tech's solid engineering reputation in a state with strong demand for technical talent. Based on peer programs, the estimated $68,000 starting salary would position graduates to pay down their debt within reasonable timeframes while building careers in energy, aerospace, or technology sectors where Texas employers actively recruit. The 71% admission rate suggests accessibility without sacrificing the rigor that engineering employers expect.

The uncertainty around exact outcomes for this cohort is worth noting, but engineering fundamentals translate consistently across programs. If your child is serious about engineering and wants a traditional campus experience with Big 12 connections in a state where engineering jobs are plentiful, the projected numbers suggest a sound investment—particularly compared to liberal arts degrees with similar debt but lower earning potential.

Where Texas Tech University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all engineering bachelors's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (14 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock$11,852$67,911*—$25,832*—
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth$57,220$73,774*$89,278$22,944*0.31
University of Mary Hardin-BaylorBelton$33,150$63,830*——*—
National Median—$67,911*—$26,056*0.38
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with engineering graduates

Architectural and Engineering Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.

$167,740/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers

Define, plan, or execute biofuels/biodiesel research programs that evaluate alternative feedstock and process technologies with near-term commercial potential.

$167,740/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to the application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services. Includes teachers of subjects such as chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, mineral, and petroleum engineering. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Engineers, All Other

All engineers not listed separately.

Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar

Design, develop, or evaluate energy-related projects or programs to reduce energy costs or improve energy efficiency during the designing, building, or remodeling stages of construction. May specialize in electrical systems; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; green buildings; lighting; air quality; or energy procurement.

Mechatronics Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test automation, intelligent systems, smart devices, or industrial systems control.

Microsystems Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices.

Photonics Engineers

Design technologies specializing in light information or light energy, such as laser or fiber optics technology.

Robotics Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test robotic applications.

Nanosystems Engineers

Design, develop, or supervise the production of materials, devices, or systems of unique molecular or macromolecular composition, applying principles of nanoscale physics and electrical, chemical, or biological engineering.

Wind Energy Engineers

Design underground or overhead wind farm collector systems and prepare and develop site specifications.

Solar Energy Systems Engineers

Perform site-specific engineering analysis or evaluation of energy efficiency and solar projects involving residential, commercial, or industrial customers. Design solar domestic hot water and space heating systems for new and existing structures, applying knowledge of structural energy requirements, local climates, solar technology, and thermodynamics.

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 Tech University, approximately 26% 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 47 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.