Analysis
University of Houston's Business Communications program delivers something rare: steady upward trajectory that actually accelerates over time. Graduates earning $46,000 in their first year see that climb to $58,000 by year four—a 27% increase that outpaces typical communication program growth. At the 74th percentile nationally, this program punches above its weight class, particularly considering UH's 70% admission rate and the fact that 41% of students receive Pell grants.
The $24,567 debt load sits right at the state median but below the national average, creating a manageable 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one. That ratio improves significantly as earnings climb, meaning graduates aren't stuck treading water—they're building momentum. The program ranks at the 60th percentile among Texas business communication programs, though with only two schools offering this specific degree in the state, that comparison has limited utility.
For parents, this represents a solid middle-class launching pad. Your child won't start at tech-company salaries, but they'll have room to grow without being buried in debt. The combination of accessible admission, reasonable costs, and genuine earnings growth makes this a practical choice for students who need to balance affordability with career prospects. Just know that first-year salary of $46,000 requires patience—the real payoff comes as experience accumulates.
Where University of Houston Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/corporate communications 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 | $45,997 | $58,198 | +27% |
| Bentley University | $57,141 | $74,655 | +31% |
| National University | $38,696 | $69,428 | +79% |
| CUNY Bernard M Baruch College | $47,880 | $62,502 | +31% |
| Chapman University | $39,901 | $61,840 | +55% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Business/Corporate Communications bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,711 | $45,997 | $58,198 | $24,567 | 0.53 | |
| $58,150 | $57,141 | $74,655 | $25,000 | 0.44 | |
| $38,520 | $49,378 | $51,589 | $23,250 | 0.47 | |
| $7,464 | $47,880 | $62,502 | $12,125 | 0.25 | |
| $34,595 | $46,213 | $53,616 | $30,619 | 0.66 | |
| $8,606 | $43,149 | $52,519 | $22,375 | 0.52 | |
| National Median | — | $41,494 | — | $23,250 | 0.56 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/corporate communications graduates
Public Relations Managers
Fundraising Managers
Technical Writers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Editors
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Public Relations Specialists
Fundraisers
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
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 36 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.