Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor charges roughly $4,000 more in student loans than the Texas median for liberal arts programs, but graduates earn nearly $10,000 more than the typical Texas liberal arts graduate in their first year—a premium that delivers tangible value. At $42,522 starting and $48,551 by year four, earnings surpass 79% of similar programs nationally, even if the school lands in the middle of the pack among Texas liberal arts programs specifically. The 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates face manageable loan payments relative to their income.

The numbers suggest a program that successfully prepares students for stable career progression rather than just credential-collecting. That 14% earnings growth trajectory indicates graduates aren't stuck in entry-level positions, and the below-average debt burden (17th percentile nationally) means the higher sticker price doesn't translate to crushing loans. For a school with a 95% admission rate serving a significant population of Pell grant recipients, these outcomes demonstrate genuine value-add.

For parents weighing this option, the calculus is straightforward: you'll pay somewhat more upfront than at other Texas liberal arts programs, but your child is likely to earn enough to justify that investment within the first year. The moderate sample size provides reasonable confidence in these figures, making this a solid choice for students drawn to a broad liberal arts foundation.