Analysis
Kansas State appears to be the only option for landscape architecture in the state, with peer programs nationally suggesting first-year earnings around $52,800 and debt near $25,700. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 falls comfortably below the 1.0 threshold often cited as manageable—meaning graduates from similar programs typically earn roughly twice what they owe. However, landscape architecture is a licensed profession in most states, and the national data doesn't distinguish between graduates heading directly into design roles versus those pursuing additional education for licensure.
The practical question is whether these economics work for entry-level positions. Based on comparable programs nationwide, graduates appear to start in the low-to-mid $50,000 range, which should make a $26,000 debt load serviceable on standard repayment plans. What remains uncertain is how Kansas State's specific curriculum, studio facilities, and regional employer connections compare to programs elsewhere—factors that matter considerably in portfolio-driven design fields. The school's 79% admission rate suggests accessibility, but tells you little about the program's competitive strength.
For a student committed to landscape architecture who wants to stay in the region, this may be the straightforward choice. Just recognize you're working from national program averages rather than Kansas State's actual graduate outcomes, so the financial picture could vary based on how this particular program prepares students and where its alumni actually land jobs.
Where Kansas State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all landscape architecture bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Landscape Architecture bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Kansas State UniversityManhattan | $10,942 | $52,841* | — | $25,735* | — |
 Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical CollegeBaton Rouge | $11,954 | $60,668* | $62,645 | —* | — |
 Ball State UniversityMuncie | $10,758 | $59,972* | $64,800 | —* | — |
 California Polytechnic State University-San Luis ObispoSan Luis Obispo | $11,075 | $58,331* | $58,474 | $22,433* | 0.38 |
 University of Rhode IslandKingston | $16,408 | $57,920* | $54,744 | —* | — |
 University of GeorgiaAthens | $11,180 | $54,777* | $60,412 | $27,000* | 0.49 |
| National Median | — | $52,841* | — | $25,734* | 0.49 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with landscape architecture graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Kansas State University, approximately 19% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 17 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.