Analysis
UNT mechanical engineering graduates earn more than the typical Texas engineering graduate ($74,988 vs. $66,678 after four years), placing the program in the 60th percentile statewide—a solid position for a university with a 72% admission rate. The program punches above its weight when you consider UNT's accessibility: it delivers competitive outcomes without the selectivity premium you're paying for at Rice or UT Austin.
The debt picture strengthens the case. At $26,974, graduates carry slightly more than the state median, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 means typical borrowers face manageable repayment. First-year salaries of $68,173 provide enough cushion for comfortable loan payments while building savings. The 10% earnings growth to year four shows the degree continues opening doors as graduates gain experience.
What matters here is realistic expectations. This isn't a top-tier program—it ranks in just the 34th percentile nationally—but for students who might not get into Texas A&M or UT Austin, UNT offers a legitimate path into mechanical engineering careers at a reasonable cost. The program serves its purpose: producing employable engineers without crushing debt, particularly valuable for the 36% of students receiving Pell grants who need accessible options that actually lead to jobs.
Where University of North Texas Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering 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 | $68,173 | $74,988 | +10% |
| Lamar University | $68,359 | $93,563 | +37% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $82,227 | $92,067 | +12% |
| Southern Methodist University | $79,280 | $92,000 | +16% |
| Rice University | $82,899 | $89,547 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Mechanical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of North TexasDenton | $11,164 | $68,173 | $74,988 | $26,974 | 0.40 |
 Rice UniversityHouston | $58,128 | $82,899 | $89,547 | $15,375 | 0.19 |
 The University of Texas at AustinAustin | $11,678 | $82,227 | $92,067 | $18,750 | 0.23 |
 Southern Methodist UniversityDallas | $64,460 | $79,280 | $92,000 | $17,708 | 0.22 |
 West Texas A & M UniversityCanyon | $9,101 | $78,028 | $80,251 | $21,125 | 0.27 |
 Texas A&M University-College StationCollege Station | $13,099 | $77,785 | $86,346 | $19,500 | 0.25 |
| National Median | — | $70,744 | — | $24,755 | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mechanical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Aerospace Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
Fuel Cell Engineers
Automotive Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Cost Estimators
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 164 graduates with reported earnings and 152 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.