Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

UT Rio Grande Valley's electrical engineering program demands careful timing considerations. Graduates start at just $45,597—barely half the $77,971 Texas median for this field—but surge to $86,662 by year four. That 90% earnings jump is striking, yet the initial salary gap is severe enough to place this program at the 10th percentile statewide.

The low debt load of $19,250 provides breathing room during those lean early years, making the first-year debt ratio manageable at 0.42. However, starting $32,000 below the state median means graduates face a challenging period when loan payments begin. The school's mission serving 64% Pell Grant students suggests many graduates may be supporting families or working in roles that build gradually toward higher-paying positions. By year four, they're earning competitively—nearly matching peers from University of Houston—but those first three years represent a significant financial hurdle compared to UT Austin or Rice graduates who start strong.

For families comfortable with delayed earnings and a longer runway to career launch, the combination of low debt and eventual solid income works. But if your student needs immediate post-graduation earnings—whether for family support, aggressive loan payoff, or financial independence—the initial salary gap matters considerably. Success here appears to require patience and possibly family financial support through the early career phase.