Analysis
Based on comparable Business/Managerial Economics programs across Texas, the financial picture here looks solid. The estimated $54,000 first-year earnings aligns with both state and national medians for this degree, suggesting graduates enter the workforce at competitive salary levels. With estimated debt of $18,246—lower than typical borrowing for this major—the 0.34 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates could theoretically dedicate about a third of their first year's salary to paying off loans, which falls comfortably within the manageable range.
The catch is that these figures come from peer programs, not West Texas A&M's actual outcomes. With a 97% admission rate and nearly 40% of students receiving Pell grants, this university serves a different population than selective competitors like Baylor (where graduates earn $60,575). Whether West Texas A&M's graduates hit these estimated benchmarks depends on factors we can't see in this data—job placement support, regional employment opportunities in the Texas Panhandle, and how well the program prepares students for careers in business economics.
For families considering this program, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value if they materialize. But given the data gaps, talk directly with the department about where recent graduates actually landed and what starting salaries look like. The difference between these estimates and reality could significantly affect your child's financial trajectory.
Where West Texas A & M University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/managerial economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Business/Managerial Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,101 | $53,984* | — | $18,246* | — | |
| $54,844 | $60,575* | $78,948 | $22,500* | 0.37 | |
| $11,164 | $54,058* | $82,643 | $14,125* | 0.26 | |
| $11,728 | $53,984* | — | $16,063* | 0.30 | |
| $11,450 | $49,831* | $65,481 | $23,125* | 0.46 | |
| $8,991 | $44,424* | $49,224 | $18,246* | 0.41 | |
| National Median | — | $53,219* | — | $22,250* | 0.42 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/managerial economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Financial Risk Specialists
Management Analysts
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Survey Researchers
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 West Texas A & M University, approximately 39% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 5 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.