Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at The University of Tennessee-Martin

Based on comparable geosciences programs nationally, UT-Martin's bachelor's likely results in around $39,678 in first-year earnings and roughly $24,757 in debt—a 0.62 ratio that falls within reasonable bounds for a technical STEM field. However, Tennessee's geosciences landscape complicates the picture: the state median sits at just $32,215, suggesting regional market limitations that could constrain career options for graduates who stay local. UT-Martin's estimated outcomes align closer to national patterns than state ones, which matters if your student plans to pursue work in energy hubs, environmental consulting, or government positions outside Tennessee.

The four-year earnings of $43,800 show modest growth but remain below what many STEM fields deliver. Geosciences careers often require graduate work for higher-paying roles in research or academia, so these figures may represent entry points rather than terminal outcomes. If your child is considering this major because they're genuinely drawn to earth sciences—not just seeking any STEM degree—the debt load is manageable enough to allow for further education or career pivoting.

The main risk here is geographic: staying in Tennessee after graduation could mean settling for outcomes closer to that $32,215 state median. Your student needs a plan that includes either relocating to markets with stronger geosciences demand or pursuing specialized skills (GIS, environmental analysis) that translate across industries. Without that intentionality, this degree could underperform its national potential.