Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at Georgia Southwestern State University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 is where you want to be—based on comparable geosciences programs nationally, graduates here would need roughly seven months of first-year income to clear their estimated $24,757 in student loans. That's manageable, particularly for a field where earnings often grow as professionals gain field experience and specialized skills. The estimated $39,678 starting salary aligns with the national median for bachelor's-level geosciences programs, suggesting this degree could provide similar entry points to the broader market.

The challenge is Georgia's weaker geology job market. Similar programs in-state typically produce earnings about $3,300 below the national benchmark, and with only nine schools offering this degree statewide, local opportunities may be limited. Many geosciences graduates pursue positions in energy, environmental consulting, or government agencies—sectors that often cluster in specific regions. If your child plans to stay in Georgia after graduation, they should research whether the state's job landscape matches their specific interests within geology, or be prepared to relocate for better opportunities.

For a selective school like Georgia Southwestern, serving a high-need student population (41% on Pell grants), this program could work if the geology career path is genuinely the goal. The debt burden is reasonable enough that geographic flexibility—being willing to go where the jobs are—makes this investment more secure.