Wildlife and Wildlands Science and Management at Stephen F Austin State University

Stephen F Austin's wildlife program delivers something rare in natural resources: graduates who actually make decent money. At $43,282 right out of school, these students earn 50% more than the typical wildlife grad nationwide and significantly outpace the Texas median of $31,788. By year four, earnings climb to $51,550—placing this program in the 80th percentile statewide. The debt load of $31,000 is higher than average but still manageable given the earnings, with graduates owing less than nine months of their first-year salary.

Here's the reality check: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so your child's experience could vary considerably. Wildlife careers are notoriously underpaid, which makes these numbers particularly striking—most programs in this field leave students earning barely above poverty wages. The 19% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates find their footing rather than hitting a ceiling immediately.

If your child is set on a wildlife career, this program appears to deliver far better economic outcomes than most alternatives. Just make sure they understand they're entering a field where passion often matters more than paycheck, even at a top-performing program like this one.