Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Fort Lewis College

Fort Lewis College's natural resources program starts graduates at a jarring $22,541—ranking in just the 5th percentile nationally and trailing every other Colorado program except Western Colorado University. That first-year figure is roughly $11,000 below the state median and nearly $12,000 below the national median. However, the 52% earnings jump to $34,200 by year four tells a different story: graduates who stick with the field see meaningful salary growth, though they're still playing catch-up to peers from CSU-Fort Collins or Metro State Denver who start $10,000+ higher.

The debt picture offers modest relief. At $21,477, it matches Colorado's median and sits below the national benchmark, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio that improves as salaries climb. Still, that first year requires serious financial cushioning—whether through family support, a second income stream, or landing one of those higher-paying positions that lift the year-four average.

For families weighing this choice: understand that you're likely betting on long-term field experience mattering more than the initial credential. If your student is passionate about conservation work in Colorado and willing to absorb lean early years, the trajectory improves. But if strong starting earnings matter—or if debt repayment will start immediately—the top Colorado programs offer considerably better launching points.