Apparel and Textiles at University of Nebraska-Lincoln

UNL's Apparel and Textiles program shows graduates recovering quickly from a modest start—earnings jump 28% by year four, reaching $43,742. That four-year figure outpaces most programs in this field and suggests graduates find their footing after gaining industry experience. The $27,000 debt load is manageable, especially compared to most bachelor's programs where debt often exceeds this amount. With a debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.8 in the first year, graduates aren't facing an overwhelming financial burden right out of the gate.

The first-year earnings of $34,244 do trail the national median slightly, landing in the 37th percentile nationally. However, this program is the only apparel and textiles bachelor's offering in Nebraska, which limits in-state comparison but also means it's the go-to option for state residents. The strong upward trajectory matters more here than the starting point—by year four, graduates are earning well above typical entry-level figures for this field.

For families considering this program, the financial picture is straightforward: reasonable debt paired with steady earnings growth. The field itself tends toward lower starting salaries industry-wide, but UNL graduates show they can advance. If your student is genuinely interested in fashion, merchandising, or textile design, this represents a practical path without the debt trap that plagues many creative fields.