Apparel and Textiles at Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Colorado State's apparel program starts graduates at $34,852—slightly below the national median—but that initial figure tells only part of the story. Within four years, earnings jump 41% to $49,128, suggesting graduates develop marketable skills that take time to translate into salary gains. This growth trajectory is notable in a field where many programs show flatter earnings curves.

The debt picture requires attention. At $21,250, graduates carry less than the national median, but it's still relatively high compared to other apparel programs nationwide (84th percentile). With first-year earnings barely covering debt at a 0.61 ratio, recent graduates face a tighter financial squeeze than those from lower-debt programs. That said, by year four, the earnings growth substantially improves the financial equation.

For Colorado families, this is the only in-state option at this degree level, which simplifies the decision—there's no local alternative for comparison. The program performs respectably against national peers (40th percentile), though it doesn't crack into top-tier territory. If your child is committed to fashion, design, or textile merchandising and prefers staying in Colorado, this program offers solid long-term prospects once those first few years pass. The key is entering with realistic expectations about that initial salary and planning accordingly for the debt repayment period.