Hospitality Administration/Management at University of Houston

University of Houston's hospitality program starts graduates at $32,639—about $4,000 below the Texas median for hospitality programs—but shows impressive momentum with 41% earnings growth over four years, reaching $46,126. This upward trajectory outpaces typical hospitality career progressions and suggests Houston's urban market offers accelerating opportunities as graduates gain experience and move into management roles.

The concerning part is the starting position. At the 40th percentile among Texas hospitality programs, graduates trail several in-state competitors: Texas Tech and UNT grads earn roughly $9,000 more in their first year. However, the debt burden of $21,423 is below both state and national averages, creating manageable early-year pressure. The 0.66 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe about eight months of their first-year salary—not trivial, but sustainable given the strong earnings growth.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether that starting salary gap closes over time. The four-year data shows Houston grads catching up significantly, likely benefiting from Houston's massive hospitality and convention industry. If your child can weather a modest starting salary and plans to stay in Texas—where UH's network is strongest—this program offers solid long-term value. But if they need higher immediate earnings, Texas Tech or UNT might justify their premium despite potentially higher costs.