Analysis
The Geography and Cartography bachelor's from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi appears positioned right at the median for Texas programs, with estimated first-year earnings of $39,960. These figures are drawn from comparable programs in Texas since the graduate sample here is too small for the Department of Education to publish specific outcomes. The estimated debt load of $21,435 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54, meaning graduates would owe roughly half their first-year salary—a workable starting point for most borrowers.
What's striking is the range among Texas geography programs. Similar degrees at Texas A&M-College Station show earnings topping $54,000, while UT Austin graduates average closer to $37,000. This spread suggests that outcomes depend heavily on factors like specialization (GIS technology versus environmental studies), internship connections, and regional job markets. Corpus Christi's coastal location could provide unique opportunities in marine spatial planning or environmental consulting that aren't captured in these broad estimates.
For families considering this program, the relatively modest debt burden offers some cushion while your student establishes their career. However, the lack of school-specific data means you're making this decision with less certainty than you'd have at larger programs. Request placement information directly from the department—where do recent graduates actually land jobs, and what are they earning two or three years out? Those conversations will tell you more than these estimated figures can.
Where Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all geography and cartography bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Geography and Cartography bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,748 | $39,960* | — | $21,435* | — | |
| $13,099 | $54,204* | $64,337 | $16,479* | 0.30 | |
| $11,450 | $44,909* | $48,307 | $22,657* | 0.50 | |
| $11,164 | $39,960* | $49,951 | $20,994* | 0.53 | |
| $11,678 | $36,878* | $61,313 | $21,875* | 0.59 | |
| $9,228 | $35,936* | $45,328 | $25,156* | 0.70 | |
| National Median | — | $38,726* | — | $22,657* | 0.59 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with geography and cartography graduates
Geographers
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Wind Energy Operations Managers
Wind Energy Development Managers
Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
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 Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, approximately 40% 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 median of 5 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.