Analysis
UT Austin's engineering-related bachelor's program carries an estimated debt load of $25,236—right at the national median for these specialized degrees—while similar programs nationally produce first-year earnings around $68,919. That 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates could reasonably pay off loans within a few years if they stay focused on debt repayment, assuming this highly selective program performs similarly to its peers. Given UT Austin's 29% admission rate and strong academic profile (1380 average SAT), there's reason to believe outcomes could match or exceed what comparable programs deliver elsewhere.
The challenge here is the limited visibility. With only 85 schools nationwide offering engineering-related fields degrees and suppressed data at UT Austin specifically, you're making an investment decision based on national patterns rather than this institution's track record. Engineering-related fields—which includes surveying, engineering technology, and similar specialties—can vary significantly in career outcomes depending on the specific concentration and local industry demand. Texas has just six programs total, so the field itself is relatively niche.
For a selective flagship university, these estimated figures suggest decent value if your student is committed to this particular field. The debt is manageable relative to projected earnings, but confirm exactly which specialization this program emphasizes and whether Austin's job market supports those careers. Without school-specific data, you're relying on UT's reputation to close the gap.
Where The University of Texas at Austin Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering-related fields bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Engineering-Related Fields bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,678 | $68,919* | — | $25,236* | — | |
| $62,484 | $100,788* | $141,630 | —* | — | |
| $60,952 | $79,755* | $94,324 | $26,975* | 0.34 | |
| $15,988 | $76,563* | $82,682 | $23,756* | 0.31 | |
| — | $76,149* | $84,356 | $31,000* | 0.41 | |
| $12,051 | $76,149* | $84,356 | $31,000* | 0.41 | |
| National Median | — | $68,919* | — | $25,368* | 0.37 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering-related fields graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Industrial Engineers
Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists
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 The University of Texas at Austin, approximately 25% 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 31 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.