Astronomy and Astrophysics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach

A bachelor's in astronomy from Embry-Riddle carries $27,000 in debt—right at Florida's median for this field—while peer programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $40,000. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67 sits below the threshold where debt becomes problematic, and the debt load itself ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally (meaning 95% of similar programs leave students with more debt). For a niche STEM field at a specialized institution, this represents reasonable borrowing relative to expected outcomes.

The caveat matters: with only 111 programs nationwide offering astronomy degrees and small graduating classes, earnings data is estimated from comparable programs rather than tracked outcomes from Embry-Riddle specifically. The aerospace focus of this university could theoretically position graduates differently than traditional physics department astronomy programs—either advantageously for industry roles or less so for pure research paths. Similar programs suggest graduates can manage this debt level, but the actual trajectory for Embry-Riddle astronomy majors remains uncertain.

For families willing to accept that uncertainty, the fundamentals look sound: manageable debt, a STEM credential from a well-regarded technical school, and estimated earnings that support repayment. But if your student is cost-sensitive or unsure about astronomy specifically, recognize you're betting on outcomes we can't verify for this particular program. The debt won't crush them, but whether Embry-Riddle's version of this degree delivers above or below the $40,000 benchmark is an open question.