Agriculture at McNeese State University

McNeese State's agriculture program outperforms most Louisiana alternatives while keeping debt manageable—an important consideration since many students will attend in-state schools. Starting earnings of $37,887 trail the national median slightly, but this program ranks in the 60th percentile among Louisiana agriculture programs, meaning it beats most competitors in the state. With only four schools offering agriculture degrees in Louisiana, this relative strength matters for students likely to stay local. The debt load of $19,500 translates to a 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe about half their first-year salary—reasonable territory for a field that doesn't command premium starting wages.

The 15% earnings growth to $43,463 by year four suggests graduates gain traction as they develop specialized skills and industry connections. Agriculture careers often require time to build expertise in areas like agronomy, farm management, or agricultural business, and this trajectory reflects that pattern. For students committed to the agricultural sector in Louisiana—where the industry remains economically significant—McNeese offers solid preparation without the crushing debt that could force career compromises.

This makes sense for students who know they want to work in agriculture and prefer staying in Louisiana. The combination of below-average debt and above-average state performance creates breathing room early in graduates' careers, even if the earnings don't immediately compete with programs in larger agricultural states.