Students at the University of Houston-Clear Lake earn substantially more than similar students at other institutions, with graduates seeing meaningful earnings advantages that reflect the university's career-focused approach.
The combination of strong earnings outcomes and exceptional affordability makes UHCL a standout value among Texas public universities.
The University of Houston-Clear Lake delivers strong value through its focus on career-oriented programs and practical outcomes. As a medium-sized public university in Texas, UHCL serves a diverse student body where 44% receive Pell Grants and nearly half are first-generation college students. The institution has carved out a distinctive niche by emphasizing programs that translate directly into solid career prospects, with graduates earning a median of $59,004 ten years after enrollment.
What makes UHCL particularly noteworthy is its ability to serve students who might not succeed at traditional four-year institutions. With a 32% transfer-in rate, the university provides a pathway for students to complete their degrees and achieve meaningful career advancement. The school's "Mobility Engine" designation reflects its success in helping students from modest backgrounds achieve upward economic mobility through education.
UHCL's approach prioritizes practical skills and industry connections over traditional college amenities. This focus pays off in the job market, where graduates consistently earn more than expected compared with similar students at other institutions. For students who value career outcomes and affordability over campus traditions, UHCL represents an excellent choice among Texas public universities.
The University of Houston-Clear Lake's program portfolio reflects its mission as a career-focused institution serving the Houston metropolitan area. Multi-Interdisciplinary Studies leads in both enrollment and aggregate return, with 268 graduates earning median salaries of $47,684. This program's success demonstrates UHCL's ability to create flexible, practical degree paths that meet diverse student needs while delivering solid career outcomes.
Technology programs provide the highest individual earnings potential. Computer Engineering graduates earn around $61,814, reflecting strong demand for technical skills in Houston's energy and technology sectors. The program's smaller scale of 33 graduates suggests selective admission or specialized focus, but the earnings outcomes justify the investment for students who complete the program.
Business programs form a core strength, with Accounting Technology graduating 132 students who earn median salaries of $47,673. This reflects Houston's role as a major business center and the practical, applied nature of UHCL's business curriculum. Even Psychology, typically a lower-earning field, produces graduates earning $36,745, which remains competitive and reflects the university's emphasis on practical applications and career preparation across all disciplines.
University of Houston-Clear Lake graduates achieve solid long-term earnings that exceed expectations for an institution of its profile. Ten years after enrollment, graduates earn a median of $59,004, with the university delivering earnings beyond expectations of about $15,135 compared with similar students at other institutions. This substantial earnings advantage places UHCL in the top third nationally for return on investment, reflecting the practical, career-focused nature of its academic programs.
The university's strongest returns come from its technology and business programs. Computer Engineering graduates earn around $61,814 early in their careers, representing some of the highest-paying outcomes at the institution. Multi-Interdisciplinary Studies, the university's largest program with 268 graduates, produces median earnings of $47,684 while serving as the highest aggregate return major due to its scale. Accounting Technology graduates earn approximately $47,673, reflecting the strong demand for business skills in the Houston metropolitan area. Even Psychology graduates, typically among the lower-earning majors, achieve $36,745 in median earnings, which remains competitive for the field.
The university's location in the Houston area provides graduates access to one of the nation's most diverse job markets, with opportunities spanning energy, healthcare, technology, and aerospace industries. This geographic advantage, combined with UHCL's emphasis on practical skills and industry partnerships, helps explain why graduates consistently outperform earnings expectations and achieve strong career trajectories in the competitive Texas job market.
The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers exceptional affordability across all income levels, making it one of the most accessible options among Texas public universities. Low-income students pay just $7,818 annually in net price, well below national averages, while middle-income families face costs of $9,994 per year. Even high-income families pay $22,367, which remains reasonable for a comprehensive university education in a major metropolitan area like Houston.
The university's affordability extends beyond sticker price to manageable debt levels. Typical graduates leave with $17,831 in federal student loan debt, a moderate amount that aligns well with the institution's strong earnings outcomes. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $14,122, reflecting the university's success in keeping family borrowing at sustainable levels. With a 0% federal loan default rate, UHCL demonstrates that its graduates can successfully manage their educational debt obligations.
What makes UHCL particularly attractive is the combination of low upfront costs and strong earning potential. The university's focus on career-oriented programs means students can expect solid returns on their educational investment, while the affordable pricing structure ensures that families don't need to take on excessive debt to access quality higher education. This balance makes UHCL an excellent choice for cost-conscious families who still want strong long-term financial outcomes.
University Of Houston-Clear Lake Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
