Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology at Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Colorado State's ecology program demonstrates something unusual: graduates start modestly at $35,322 but see earnings jump 37% to $48,343 within four years—one of the stronger growth trajectories in this field nationally. While the program ranks in the 89th percentile compared to similar programs across the country, it sits in the middle of Colorado's pack (40th percentile), trailing CU Boulder's program by about $2,000. The $19,500 median debt is manageable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55 that improves significantly as those mid-career earnings climb.

The practical question is whether that initial salary—roughly $3,000 below Colorado's median for the program—creates financial strain during the first few years after graduation. For students planning to stay in Colorado's environmental or research sectors, the long-term earnings growth suggests the degree gains value with experience. The moderate sample size means these figures reflect actual graduate outcomes, not just a handful of data points.

Bottom line: This program rewards patience. If your child can manage a tight first year or two financially, the earnings trajectory makes this a solid investment compared to most ecology programs nationally. Just know they'll likely start behind peers from CU Boulder, even if that gap narrows over time.