Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
In Texas, Interior Architecture programs produce first-year earnings ranging from roughly $36,000 to over $50,000, and based on comparable programs, University of Houston likely falls somewhere in the middle of that pack—estimated around $42,000 with debt near $22,600. That debt level represents just over half of first-year income, which is manageable by most standards, though the earning potential itself may feel modest for a four-year degree. Programs like University of North Texas demonstrate that significantly higher starting salaries are possible in this field within the same state, suggesting the credential's value varies considerably by institution.
What complicates this picture is that both the earnings and debt figures are estimates derived from a handful of Texas programs, not reported outcomes from UH graduates specifically. The actual experience could differ—positively or negatively—from what peer programs suggest. For a major that directly prepares students for a specific career path, starting around $42,000 puts graduates in a reasonable position to manage their loans, but it's not the kind of immediate financial return that makes the investment obviously compelling.
The practical takeaway: if your child is committed to interior architecture, this program appears financially viable based on what similar Texas programs deliver, but understanding UH's specific placement rates, internship connections, and whether graduates typically supplement income with freelance work would help clarify whether this estimate reflects reality.
Where University of Houston Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all interior architecture bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Interior Architecture bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,711 | $41,942* | — | $22,600* | — | |
| $11,164 | $50,681* | $56,839 | $18,250* | 0.36 | |
| $11,852 | $45,345* | $53,906 | $21,950* | 0.48 | |
| $10,600 | $38,538* | — | $23,250* | 0.60 | |
| $8,991 | $36,513* | — | $30,525* | 0.84 | |
| National Median | — | $44,811* | — | $23,250* | 0.52 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with interior architecture graduates
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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.