Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • El Paso, TX & Denton, TX
When students choose between University of North Texas and The University of Texas at El Paso, they're comparing two large Texas public universities with notably different cost structures and student populations. UNT runs $3,626/year more but produces graduates who typically earn $6,087 more annually.
Both institutions rank in the top 97th percentile nationally for overall value, with strong mobility outcomes driving their rankings. The decision hinges on balancing upfront affordability against long-term earnings potential.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$18,000
federal loans
$19,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$11,916
borrowed by parents
$23,211
borrowed by parents
UNT is predominantly business-focused, with 19% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by 8% in arts programs. UTEP has a more balanced mix: 17% business and 14% engineering.
UNT's largest programs include Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies (861 graduates annually) and Liberal Arts (618), while UTEP emphasizes professional programs like Registered Nursing (347) and Criminal Justice (283). These program concentrations help explain the earnings differences, with UNT's broader liberal arts focus versus UTEP's career-oriented professional programs.
For students prioritizing immediate affordability and serving a more diverse population, UTEP delivers strong value at $10,726/year with 61% Pell recipients successfully achieving economic mobility. UNT offers higher earning potential for those who can manage the $14,352/year cost and complete their degrees at higher rates.
Both schools excel at economic mobility but serve different purposes: UTEP as an accessible pathway for first-generation and low-income students, UNT as a stepping stone to higher earnings. The right choice depends on your family's financial capacity, completion likelihood, and career goals.
If affordability is paramount, UTEP provides excellent value. If you can manage the higher cost and want maximum earnings potential, UNT justifies the investment.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
