Plant Sciences at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo's Plant Sciences program ranks as the top-earning option in California and stands in the 95th percentile nationally—remarkable performance in a field where the typical graduate earns around $43,000. First-year graduates here earn $63,000, roughly $18,000 more than the California median and $20,000 above the national figure. The debt load of $16,666 translates to a 0.26 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates can cover their student loans with roughly three months of earnings.

The program does show minimal earnings growth between years one and four, which is common in agricultural sciences where early career salaries can represent a more sustained plateau rather than a steep climb. Still, starting at $63,000 provides a cushion that many plant science graduates elsewhere don't have. The moderate sample size suggests stable data, and the 30% admission rate indicates this isn't a back-door option—you're getting a competitive program with strong agricultural industry connections.

For parents weighing STEM options, this demonstrates that not all science degrees follow the same pattern. Cal Poly SLO's hands-on "learn by doing" approach and proximity to California's massive agricultural industry clearly translate into employment outcomes that outpace even UC Davis, traditionally known for agricultural programs. If your child is genuinely interested in plant sciences, this represents strong value with manageable debt.