At $20,819/yr net price, Universal Technical Institute of Texas Inc. graduates earn $51,222/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $17,222/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $20,819 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $83,276 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $51,222/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$17,222/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 56.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,267 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $19,366/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $19,141/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,585/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $26,112/yr |
| $110,001+ | $25,458/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $37,056 | $14,735 |
The Risk Factor
56.7% of students at Universal Technical Institute of Texas Inc. 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
Universal Technical Institute of Texas delivers a mixed financial picture with significant variations across programs. Your median earnings of $51,222 ten years after graduation provide a reasonable return on the $20,819 annual net price, though the 56% graduation rate means nearly half of students never complete their programs.
The Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies program shows weaker earnings at $37,056 annually with median debt of $14,735. This creates a concerning debt-to-income ratio that could strain your budget in early career years. Houston's large automotive and industrial sectors provide job opportunities, but starting salaries may not justify the cost compared to community college alternatives.
Your biggest financial risk is the graduation rate. If you struggle to complete your program, you face debt without credentials in a field where certification matters. The for-profit structure also means less financial aid flexibility than public institutions.
This school works best if you need the specific industry connections and employer partnerships that UTI provides, and you can commit fully to completing your program. The structured environment may suit you if traditional college settings haven't worked. However, if cost is your primary concern, local community colleges offer similar automotive programs at significantly lower prices.
With 56% of students receiving aid, explore all federal aid options first. UTI's industry partnerships sometimes lead to employer-sponsored training opportunities that can offset costs. Consider whether the brand recognition and job placement services justify the premium over cheaper alternatives in the Houston area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Universal Technical Institute of Texas Inc. worth the cost?
Universal Technical Institute of Texas Inc. produces graduates earning $51,222 after 10 years with a relatively low median debt of $14,267. The 57% graduation rate is concerning, but the debt-to-income ratio is manageable for those who complete the program.
What programs at Universal Technical Institute of Texas Inc. have the best ROI?
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies is the main program, with graduates earning around $37,056. This salary may struggle to justify the $20,819 annual cost, especially given the moderate graduation rate.
How much debt do Universal Technical Institute of Texas Inc. graduates typically have?
The median debt is $14,267, which is lower than many schools. However, with starting salaries around $37,000 in the main program, graduates will need steady employment to manage payments comfortably.
What are the risks of attending Universal Technical Institute of Texas Inc.?
The 57% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish the program. Non-completers often still carry debt without the credential, making this a significant financial risk if you're not committed to finishing.