Analysis
UNT's hospitality management program punches above its weight nationally—graduates earn $41,183 in their first year, placing them in the 92nd percentile compared to hospitality programs across the country. That's 19% above the national median and even outperforms the typical 75th percentile graduate. With debt under $24,000, graduates face manageable monthly payments while earning more than most peers in their field.
Within Texas, the picture is more nuanced. UNT ranks solidly in the middle of the state's hospitality programs, essentially tied with Texas Tech for the top spot but not dramatically ahead of the pack. Still, graduates here earn nearly $5,000 more annually than those from University of Houston's program, and the debt burden remains reasonable. The earnings trajectory shows steady if unspectacular growth—reaching nearly $45,000 by year four represents real progress in an industry where consistent advancement matters.
For an accessible state university with a 72% admission rate, this program delivers strong returns. Your child would graduate with less debt than the national average for hospitality degrees while earning significantly more than most hospitality graduates nationwide. The program's robust sample size confirms these aren't outliers—this is consistent performance that justifies the investment, particularly for students committed to hospitality careers in Texas's growing tourism and events sectors.
Where University of North Texas Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all hospitality administration/management bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of North Texas graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Texas | $41,183 | $44,935 | +9% |
| Texas Tech University | $41,506 | $55,633 | +34% |
| University of Houston | $32,639 | $46,126 | +41% |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | $35,569 | $42,294 | +19% |
| Stephen F Austin State University | $30,758 | $39,252 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Hospitality Administration/Management bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,164 | $41,183 | $44,935 | $23,070 | 0.56 | |
| $11,852 | $41,506 | $55,633 | $22,500 | 0.54 | |
| $13,099 | $37,743 | — | $19,500 | 0.52 | |
| $8,991 | $35,569 | $42,294 | $22,767 | 0.64 | |
| $9,711 | $32,639 | $46,126 | $21,423 | 0.66 | |
| $10,600 | $30,758 | $39,252 | $25,000 | 0.81 | |
| National Median | — | $34,675 | — | $23,920 | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with hospitality administration/management graduates
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
Lodging Managers
Food Service Managers
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners
Gambling Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services Workers
Personal Service Managers, All Other
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
Spa Managers
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 North Texas, approximately 36% 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 142 graduates with reported earnings and 133 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.