Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Montana

Natural Resources Conservation and Research bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Montana (6 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
The University of Montana-Western$50,418
Montana State University$36,745$33,470$27,0400.74
The University of Montana$27,552$38,773$21,2500.77
National Median$33,988$23,0100.68

Other Natural Resources Conservation and Research Programs in Montana

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Montana schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Montana State University
Bozeman
$8,083$36,745$27,040
The University of Montana
Missoula
$8,152$27,552$21,250

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 The University of Montana-Western, approximately 35% 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.