Analysis
University of Houston's business program stands out for keeping debt remarkably low while delivering solid earnings growth. At $18,125 in median debt, graduates here borrow about 30% less than the typical Texas business student and roughly half the national average. Combined with first-year earnings of $49,192, this creates an excellent debt-to-income ratio of 0.37βmeaning graduates can realistically pay off their loans quickly.
The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story. While starting salaries place graduates in the 60th percentile among Texas business programs, the 28% jump to $62,735 by year four demonstrates strong career momentum. This puts UH graduates within striking distance of much more selective programs like Baylor ($63,438), despite UH's 70% admission rate making it far more accessible.
For parents weighing value, this program delivers what business education should: practical skills that translate to career advancement without crushing debt loads. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives confidence in these outcomes. While UH may not have the prestige of UT Austin, it provides a clear path to middle-class earnings with manageable financial riskβparticularly appealing given that 41% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program successfully serves students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Where University of Houston Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations 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 | $49,192 | $62,735 | +28% |
| Southern Methodist University | $60,659 | $105,314 | +74% |
| Texas Christian University | $71,984 | $93,488 | +30% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $66,289 | $79,482 | +20% |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | $59,306 | $73,138 | +23% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (94 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,711 | $49,192 | $62,735 | $18,125 | 0.37 | |
| $57,220 | $71,984 | $93,488 | $25,000 | 0.35 | |
| $11,678 | $66,289 | $79,482 | $20,750 | 0.31 | |
| $35,500 | $65,144 | $63,561 | $39,668 | 0.61 | |
| $54,844 | $63,438 | $69,489 | $22,866 | 0.36 | |
| $64,460 | $60,659 | $105,314 | $19,500 | 0.32 | |
| National Median | β | $45,703 | β | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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 414 graduates with reported earnings and 362 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.