Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt

The first year after graduation is rough—$29,476 ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for geoscience programs and well below California's median of $40,078. But here's the counterpoint: by year four, earnings jump 79% to $52,768, surpassing both state and national benchmarks and approaching what Cal Poly Pomona and SLO graduates earn right out of school. This suggests Humboldt's graduates either take lower-paying field positions initially or pursue graduate degrees before entering higher-paying roles, both common paths in the geosciences.

The debt picture is favorable—$20,526 is below California's median for geology programs and manageable given the eventual earnings trajectory. With a 0.70 debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio that improves dramatically as salaries rise, the financial fundamentals work if your child can weather the early years. The 46% Pell grant enrollment suggests the school successfully serves students from diverse economic backgrounds, though the 99% admission rate also means this program isn't as selective as the top-performing Cal State and UC alternatives.

The bottom line: this program represents a slower start than most California geoscience degrees, but graduates catch up substantially within four years. It's a viable option if your child is willing to accept lower initial earnings, but families should seriously consider whether the stronger starting salaries at Cal Poly SLO or UC Davis justify their application.