Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release).
Analysis
University of Houston's finance program offers solid debt management alongside steady earnings growth that positions graduates well within Texas. With median debt of just $17,875—significantly below both the national ($23,332) and state ($22,500) averages—students graduate with manageable financial obligations that represent only 33 cents for every dollar earned in the first year.
The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story of professional development. Starting salaries of $54,041 climb to $68,263 by year four, representing 26% growth that outpaces many finance programs. While UH ranks in the 60th percentile among Texas finance programs, this performance becomes more impressive when considering the school's accessibility—70% admission rate and 41% of students receiving Pell grants—compared to the elite private institutions dominating the state's top earnings rankings.
The program's strength lies in delivering strong value without the financial burden typical of finance education. Though graduates won't immediately match earnings from UT Austin or SMU, they're building careers with far less debt risk and solid growth potential. For families seeking a finance degree that balances career prospects with financial prudence, this represents a practical path into the industry.
Where University of Houston Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services 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 | $54,041 | $68,263 | +26% |
| Southern Methodist University | $83,159 | $113,839 | +37% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $81,844 | $95,994 | +17% |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | $71,409 | $90,976 | +27% |
| Texas Christian University | $78,453 | $90,933 | +16% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (59 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,711 | $54,041 | $68,263 | $17,875 | 0.33 | |
| $64,460 | $83,159 | $113,839 | $19,500 | 0.23 | |
| $11,678 | $81,844 | $95,994 | $20,500 | 0.25 | |
| $57,220 | $78,453 | $90,933 | $19,500 | 0.25 | |
| $13,099 | $71,409 | $90,976 | $16,880 | 0.24 | |
| — | $70,963 | $59,017 | $48,469 | 0.68 | |
| National Median | — | $53,590 | — | $23,332 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
Explore Related Programs
Finance and Financial Management Services in Texas
- Southern Methodist University$83,159
- The University of Texas at Austin$81,844
- Texas Christian University$78,453
- Texas A&M University-College Station$71,409
- University of Phoenix-Texas$70,963
Explore further
- All Programs covering the principles and practices of managing organizations, finances, and markets. Includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, entrepreneurship, and specialized fields like supply chain and real estate. programs nationwide
- All programs at University of Houston
- College programs in Texas
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 351 graduates with reported earnings and 310 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.