Accounting at University of Houston

The University of Houston's accounting program offers something rare: genuinely low debt combined with strong earnings growth. Graduates leave with just $14,874 in loans—dramatically less than the $25,000 national median and even below Texas's $22,270 average. That 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under four months of gross income, one of the lowest burdens among Texas accounting programs.

The earnings story requires patience but pays off. Starting at $48,942 puts graduates slightly below Texas's median, but the 31% jump to $64,099 by year four brings them nearly to par with the state's top programs. While you won't match TCU or UT Austin's $68,000+ starting salaries, you're closing most of that gap within a few years—without the debt load that often accompanies more selective programs. The 40th percentile ranking among Texas schools reflects that solid mid-pack position.

For families worried about accounting job stability but wary of excessive debt, this program delivers on the promise of professional credentials without financial burden. With 41% of students receiving Pell grants, UH clearly serves students who can't afford to gamble on heavy loans. The tradeoff is a slower start, but by year four, graduates are earning respectable professional salaries with minimal debt hanging over them.