Median Earnings (1yr)
$46,293
79th percentile
Median Debt
$26,876
16% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.58
Manageable
Sample Size
29
Limited data

Analysis

University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Interior Architecture program produces graduates who earn about $46,300 in their first year—performing in the 79th percentile nationally but around the middle of Nebraska programs. The caveat: there's only one other Interior Architecture program in Nebraska to compare against, so state rankings mean less here. More telling is how this compares to the broader national landscape, where UNL graduates substantially outpace the typical $44,800 median and even beat the 75th percentile benchmark of $45,780.

The debt burden of $26,900 translates to a 0.58 debt-to-earnings ratio—manageable by most standards—and graduates see solid 21% income growth by year four, reaching $55,800. That trajectory suggests this isn't just a good starting point but a foundation for genuine career progression. The relatively low admission selectivity and modest debt load make this accessible to Nebraska families without requiring enormous financial risk.

One important warning: these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary more than usual. Still, the combination of above-average starting salaries, reasonable debt, and meaningful earnings growth makes this look like a solid choice for students genuinely interested in the field. The numbers suggest employers value UNL's preparation—graduates aren't just finding jobs, they're finding ones that pay better than most competing programs nationwide.

Where University of Nebraska-Lincoln Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all interior architecture bachelors's programs nationally

University of Nebraska-LincolnOther interior architecture programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates earn $46k, placing them in the 79th percentile of all interior architecture bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska

Interior Architecture bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Nebraska-Lincoln$46,293$55,806$26,8760.58
National Median$44,811—$23,2500.52

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 Nebraska-Lincoln, approximately 22% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 29 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.