At $10,204/yr net price, Texas A & M University-Kingsville graduates earn $51,450/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $17,450/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,204 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,816 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $51,450/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$17,450/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 45.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,934 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,028/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,470/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,410/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,502/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,903/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Master | $69,338 | $37,949 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $68,079 | $26,138 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $65,238 | |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $62,012 | $21,678 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $57,526 | $20,500 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $56,286 | $36,554 |
| Civil Engineering. | Bachelor | $52,107 | $22,717 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $51,273 | |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $48,432 | |
| Music. | Bachelor | $48,041 | $31,000 |
The Risk Factor
45.6% of students at Texas A & M University-Kingsville graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Texas A&M University-Kingsville offers solid financial returns for students who choose the right majors, but your program selection will make or break the investment. The $10,204 annual net price creates a strong foundation for positive ROI, especially when paired with the school's engineering programs.
Engineering majors drive the strongest returns here. Electrical engineering graduates earn $68,079 annually with manageable debt loads of $26,138, while mechanical engineering delivers $62,012 in earnings with just $21,678 in debt. These programs tap into South Texas's energy sector and manufacturing base, creating clear pathways to well-paying careers.
Communication disorders sciences presents an interesting opportunity at $69,338 in earnings, though the $37,949 debt load requires careful consideration. Business administration provides middle-ground returns at $57,526 with reasonable debt of $20,500.
The school's 45.6% graduation rate creates significant risk. You face nearly even odds of not completing your degree, which would leave you with debt but no credential. The 67% retention rate suggests many students struggle with the academic transition or find better fits elsewhere.
Texas A&M-Kingsville works best for students committed to engineering or allied health programs who can handle the academic demands. The low net price makes it particularly attractive for Texas residents seeking affordable access to solid engineering programs. However, students uncertain about their major or those needing extensive academic support should consider schools with stronger retention and graduation rates.
You should avoid this school if you're interested in majors not listed among the top earners, as the graduation rate problems compound when career prospects are weaker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Texas A&M University-Kingsville worth the cost?
Texas A&M-Kingsville offers decent value with a low net price of $10,204 and moderate debt levels around $22,934. The 10-year earnings of $51,450 provide a reasonable return, though the 46% graduation rate means many students don't finish their degrees.
Which programs at Texas A&M University-Kingsville have the best ROI?
Engineering programs at Texas A&M-Kingsville deliver strong returns, with electrical engineering graduates earning $68,079 and mechanical engineering graduates earning $62,012. Communication disorders sciences graduates earn the highest at $69,338, making these programs worth the investment.
What is the job market like for Texas A&M University-Kingsville graduates?
Texas A&M-Kingsville graduates earn $51,450 ten years after graduation, which is below the national average for four-year college graduates. The school's location in South Texas limits some job opportunities compared to major metropolitan areas.
How much student debt do Texas A&M University-Kingsville graduates typically have?
Texas A&M-Kingsville graduates leave with a median debt of $22,934, which is manageable given the low cost of attendance. However, the below-average graduation rate means many students accumulate debt without completing their degrees.