Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at Auburn University

Auburn's geosciences program produces graduates earning 15% more than the national median for this field, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means individual outcomes can vary significantly. With first-year earnings of $45,588 against $27,000 in debt, graduates face a manageable 0.59 debt-to-earnings ratio—well below the 1.0 threshold that typically signals financial stress. The debt burden itself is remarkably light, falling in just the 11th percentile nationally, meaning 89% of comparable programs saddle students with more debt.

The program's 84th percentile national ranking for earnings is impressive, though the 60th percentile state ranking is less meaningful given only three Alabama schools offer this degree. What matters more: these earnings put graduates on solid footing for a field where many positions require graduate degrees for advancement. The relatively low debt load means students can more comfortably pursue those credentials if needed.

The limited sample size is the real caveat here. With fewer than 30 graduates in the data, a few unusually successful (or struggling) alumni can skew the numbers either way. If your child is seriously considering this path, connect with current students and recent graduates to understand typical career trajectories. That said, the combination of above-average earnings and below-average debt suggests Auburn is preparing geology students well without overcharging them in the process.