Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65 sounds manageable on paper, but the underlying numbers tell a tougher story. Based on comparable software and media programs in Texas, graduates might expect around $35,000 in first-year earnings—roughly $8,000 below the national median for this field and substantially behind what similar majors earn at flagship institutions. Texas A&M's program produces graduates earning $36,000, while University of Houston hits $34,000, but University of Phoenix-Texas shows what's possible in this field with outcomes reaching $83,000. The estimated $22,750 in debt is lower than both state and national benchmarks, which helps offset the earnings gap somewhat.
The real concern is growth trajectory. Software and media applications typically reward technical skills with rapid salary increases, but starting at $35,000 in a field where entry-level positions elsewhere begin considerably higher could mean playing catch-up for years. Victoria's location away from major tech hubs like Austin or Houston may limit both internship opportunities during school and job prospects after graduation. With 44% of students on Pell grants, this is a school serving working families who need strong employment outcomes, not uncertain career launches.
If your student is set on this field, the numbers suggest looking at Houston's main campus or Texas A&M instead. Both cost similarly but connect students to stronger job markets and employer networks that translate into better starting positions.
Where University of Houston-Victoria Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer software and media applications bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Computer Software and Media Applications bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,499 | $34,994* | — | $22,750* | — | |
| — | $83,476* | $57,111 | $44,225* | 0.53 | |
| $13,099 | $35,991* | $52,454 | $20,937* | 0.58 | |
| $9,711 | $33,997* | $50,449 | $23,959* | 0.70 | |
| $17,488 | $32,159* | $38,887 | $48,849* | 1.52 | |
| National Median | — | $38,234* | — | $27,000* | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer software and media applications graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Special Effects Artists and Animators
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 University of Houston-Victoria, approximately 44% 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 median of 4 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.