Analysis
Business economics programs in Texas cluster tightly around $54,000 in first-year earnings, and this UMHB degree appears to track right with that state median. Similar programs suggest graduates can expect starting salaries that match what economics majors typically earn across Texas—enough to manage a $24,000 debt load without excessive strain. The 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably within normal range for business bachelor's degrees.
What's harder to gauge is whether UMHB's program offers distinguishing advantages when peer institutions like UNT and UT Arlington produce comparable earnings outcomes. The 95% admission rate and relatively accessible price point (reflected in that estimated debt figure) make this a lower-barrier entry into business economics compared to selective alternatives like Baylor, where graduates see about $6,500 more in first-year earnings. For students seeking a straightforward path into business roles without the competitive admissions hurdle, the numbers suggest reasonable value—assuming the actual outcomes for this campus align with state patterns.
The key uncertainty is whether UMHB's specific curriculum, alumni network, or regional employer connections might shift outcomes meaningfully from these peer-based projections. Given the tight earnings range across most Texas programs in this field, your child would likely do well to evaluate campus-specific factors like internship pipelines and faculty industry connections that won't show up in these estimated figures.
Where University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/managerial economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business/Managerial Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,150 | $53,984* | — | $24,000* | — | |
| $54,844 | $60,575* | $78,948 | $22,500* | 0.37 | |
| $11,164 | $54,058* | $82,643 | $14,125* | 0.26 | |
| $11,728 | $53,984* | — | $16,063* | 0.30 | |
| $11,450 | $49,831* | $65,481 | $23,125* | 0.46 | |
| $8,991 | $44,424* | $49,224 | $18,246* | 0.41 | |
| National Median | — | $53,219* | — | $22,250* | 0.42 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/managerial economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Financial Risk Specialists
Management Analysts
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Survey Researchers
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 Mary Hardin-Baylor, approximately 37% 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 5 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.