Plant Sciences at California State University-Fresno

Fresno State's Plant Sciences program punches well above its weight, delivering first-year earnings of $60,443—substantially higher than the state median of $45,095 and nearly matching Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, which tops the state. For a program at a school that admits 96% of applicants and serves a majority Pell Grant population, these outcomes are exceptional. The program ranks in the 80th percentile among California's plant science programs and 95th percentile nationally, suggesting strong industry connections in the Central Valley's agricultural hub.

The financial picture is equally compelling. At $13,000 in median debt—9% below the state median and 37% below the national median—graduates face minimal financial burden. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22 means most graduates could feasibly pay off their loans in less than three months of gross earnings. Earnings growth to $70,421 by year four shows this isn't just about entry-level agricultural jobs; graduates are advancing into higher-value roles.

This is one of those programs where location matters tremendously. Fresno sits in California's agricultural heartland, giving students direct access to the nation's most productive farming region. For families concerned about college affordability and career outcomes, this program delivers both at a school designed to serve working-class California families. It's rare to find a bachelor's program with this combination of low debt, high earnings, and strong growth trajectory.