Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at California State University-San Bernardino

California's geoscience programs span a $10,000 range in first-year earnings, with Cal Poly SLO and Pomona graduates starting near $49,000 while other CSU programs cluster around $40,000-$43,000. Based on comparable California programs, CSU San Bernardino's geoscience degree likely positions graduates at the state median of $40,078—about $9,000 below what the top state programs produce, but roughly matching the national benchmark for this field.

The estimated $17,896 in debt sits well below both the national median ($24,757) and what many peer institutions report, yielding a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45. That's a manageable number—less than half a year's salary—especially for a campus serving 57% Pell-eligible students. The financial structure makes sense even if the earnings trajectory doesn't lead the pack.

The real question is whether geoscience careers require graduate school or specialized certifications that would delay stronger earnings. If your child plans to work in environmental consulting or government roles immediately after graduation, the estimated outcomes align with entry points in those sectors. If advanced degrees are necessary for their specific career path, factor in those additional costs against this relatively affordable foundation. The modest debt load provides flexibility either way.