Analysis
Texas Tech's Interior Architecture program outperforms most alternatives in the state, landing in the 60th percentile among Texas schools—a meaningful edge in a state where only eight universities offer this degree. First-year graduates earn $45,345, roughly $3,400 more than the state median, while the $21,950 debt load sits below both state and national benchmarks. The 19% earnings growth to $53,906 by year four suggests this isn't a career that peaks immediately, giving graduates room to build on their initial placement.
That said, the small sample size here—fewer than 30 graduates tracked—means these numbers could swing substantially year to year. What looks solid today might shift if just a few graduates land unusually high or low-paying roles. Still, Texas Tech sits firmly in the middle tier of Texas programs: behind University of North Texas's $50,681 but well ahead of UT San Antonio's $36,513.
For families looking at interior architecture programs in Texas without the higher costs of private schools, this represents a reasonable path. The debt burden is manageable at 0.48 times first-year earnings, and graduates appear to gain traction as they establish themselves professionally. Just recognize you're evaluating a program based on limited data points—the actual experience could vary more than these averages suggest.
Where Texas Tech University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all interior architecture bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Texas Tech 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 Tech University | $45,345 | $53,906 | +19% |
| Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | $44,511 | $57,174 | +28% |
| University of North Texas | $50,681 | $56,839 | +12% |
| California State University-Sacramento | $50,108 | $56,590 | +13% |
| Thomas Jefferson University | $44,696 | $56,048 | +25% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Interior Architecture bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Texas Tech UniversityLubbock | $11,852 | $45,345 | $53,906 | $21,950 | 0.48 |
 University of North TexasDenton | $11,164 | $50,681 | $56,839 | $18,250 | 0.36 |
 Stephen F Austin State UniversityNacogdoches | $10,600 | $38,538 | — | $23,250 | 0.60 |
 The University of Texas at San AntonioSan Antonio | $8,991 | $36,513 | — | $30,525 | 0.84 |
| National Median | — | $44,811 | — | $23,250 | 0.52 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with interior architecture graduates
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.
Sample Size: Based on 22 graduates with reported earnings and 20 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.