Analysis
University of Houston architecture graduates earn $58,472 four years out, putting them solidly above both the national median ($47,046) and well ahead of Texas's state median ($42,798) for the program. At the 60th percentile statewide, UH trails only UT Austin among major Texas architecture programs—a notable achievement given UH's 70% admission rate serves a significantly more accessible student population (41% receive Pell grants). The $26,250 median debt sits right at national norms and just slightly above the state median, translating to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53.
The 18% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests UH architecture grads are gaining traction in the profession, likely as they complete licensure requirements and move beyond entry-level positions. For context, architecture tends to reward persistence: earnings typically accelerate as professionals gain experience and credentials. Starting at $49,388 isn't luxurious for a design-intensive field, but the trajectory is promising.
For parents weighing options, this represents solid value—particularly for Texas residents paying in-state tuition. Your child would be entering a competitive program that demonstrably outperforms most state alternatives while keeping debt reasonable. The profession demands patience for financial payoff, but UH's track record suggests graduates are building viable careers.
Where University of Houston Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all architecture bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Houston graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Houston | $49,388 | $58,472 | +18% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $56,327 | $60,340 | +7% |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | $45,431 | $60,257 | +33% |
| The University of Texas at Arlington | $40,166 | $58,728 | +46% |
| Texas Tech University | $39,060 | $54,109 | +39% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Architecture bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,711 | $49,388 | $58,472 | $26,250 | 0.53 | |
| $11,678 | $56,327 | $60,340 | $21,000 | 0.37 | |
| $13,099 | $45,431 | $60,257 | $18,465 | 0.41 | |
| $11,728 | $40,166 | $58,728 | $23,535 | 0.59 | |
| $8,991 | $39,181 | $48,664 | $23,000 | 0.59 | |
| $11,852 | $39,060 | $54,109 | $21,699 | 0.56 | |
| National Median | — | $47,046 | — | $27,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with architecture graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Architects, Except Landscape and Naval
Architecture Teachers, Postsecondary
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, approximately 41% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 85 graduates with reported earnings and 71 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.