Median Earnings (1yr)
$49,192
63rd percentile (60th in TX)
Median Debt
$18,125
30% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.37
Manageable
Sample Size
414
Adequate data

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 0.37—meaning 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 risk—particularly 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

University of HoustonOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Houston graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Houston graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 63th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (94 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Houston$49,192$62,735$18,1250.37
Texas Christian University$71,984$93,488$25,0000.35
The University of Texas at Austin$66,289$79,482$20,7500.31
LeTourneau University$65,144$63,561$39,6680.61
Baylor University$63,438$69,489$22,8660.36
Southern Methodist University$60,659$105,314$19,5000.32
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Texas

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth
$57,220$71,984$25,000
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin
$11,678$66,289$20,750
LeTourneau University
Longview
$35,500$65,144$39,668
Baylor University
Waco
$54,844$63,438$22,866
Southern Methodist University
Dallas
$64,460$60,659$19,500

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.