Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at Stephen F Austin State University

Similar geosciences programs across Texas suggest graduates start around $44,000—right at the state median but above what most geology programs produce nationally. The estimated debt of $22,900 creates a manageable first-year burden of about 0.52, meaning half a year's salary covers the total borrowing. For a field where advanced degrees often matter more than undergraduate pedigree, this accessibility-focused program appears reasonably priced.

The challenge is that Texas hosts several stronger-earning geology programs, with University of Houston-Downtown and Texas Tech graduates pulling $50,000 or more in their first year. That $6,000-7,000 gap compounds over a career, and geosciences is competitive enough that employer recruitment patterns may favor larger research universities. Stephen F Austin's smaller program size (hence the suppressed data) could mean fewer industry connections in oil and gas hubs like Houston, though it might also allow for more individualized faculty mentorship.

For families weighing this option: the debt level won't trap your child, but the estimated earnings suggest this works best as a stepping stone to graduate school or as preparation for fields where the geosciences degree serves as foundation rather than credential. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation in Texas's energy sector, programs with documented placement success and higher starting salaries deserve serious consideration alongside this one.