Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at The University of Texas at Dallas

Something is seriously wrong with UT Dallas's health sciences program. Graduates earn just $20,631 in their first year—less than half the Texas median of $32,447 and ranking in the bottom 10th percentile statewide. Compare this to similar programs at UT Rio Grande Valley ($40,655) or Texas A&M ($37,331), and the gap becomes stark. This isn't a matter of modest underperformance; graduates from this program are earning less than many jobs requiring no degree at all.

The debt picture offers little consolation. While $16,250 is lower than typical for this field, it still represents nearly 80% of first-year earnings—a concerning burden when those earnings barely reach subsistence level. The fundamental issue isn't the debt itself but what graduates are getting for that investment. In a state where most health sciences programs launch graduates into $32,000+ careers, UT Dallas's track record suggests either students are entering low-paying positions that don't require the degree, or the program isn't providing adequate career preparation.

For families considering this program, understand that your child would likely earn significantly more by attending nearly any other health sciences program in Texas. Unless there are compelling personal circumstances (location-specific needs, unique career plans), this program represents a poor return on investment even at a respected public university.