Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Georgia College & State University

Georgia College's natural resources program lands right at the state median for earnings—$35,952 in the first year—which beats the national average but trails University of North Georgia's $44,124 by nearly $8,000. This gap matters when you're starting a career that typically doesn't command high salaries, though the manageable debt load of $23,114 keeps monthly payments reasonable at around $265.

The 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio is solid, meaning your child would owe less than eight months of gross income. That's a sustainable starting point for graduates entering environmental science, forestry, or conservation roles. The challenge isn't the debt—it's that these careers often require additional credentials or years of experience before reaching higher pay levels. At 60th percentile nationally for earnings, this program performs adequately but not exceptionally.

The real caveat here is sample size: with fewer than 30 graduates measured, these numbers could shift significantly year to year. If your child is passionate about natural resources work and plans to stay in Georgia, the modest debt makes this a reasonable choice. Just understand they're entering a field where mission often matters more than money, and starting salaries reflect that reality. The degree won't close doors, but it won't open high-paying ones immediately either.