Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at University of Connecticut-Stamford
Bachelor's Degree
stamford.uconn.eduAnalysis
A geosciences bachelor's degree brings different financial realities depending on where you earn it, and Connecticut's programs show that variation clearly. Similar programs across the state typically produce first-year earnings around $44,000, while this program's estimated $39,700 falls roughly 10% below that mark. When Eastern Connecticut State's geosciences graduates report earnings of $43,915—a tangible $4,200 advantage—the difference matters for a family weighing options within the same state.
The estimated debt load of $24,757 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62, meaning roughly seven months of gross pay would cover the total borrowing. That's reasonable by national standards for geosciences programs, which typically carry similar debt levels. The challenge isn't the debt itself but rather whether those estimated earnings reflect a temporary starting point or something more persistent. Geosciences careers often require graduate work or specific industry certifications to access higher-paying roles, and first-year figures don't always capture that trajectory.
For families considering UConn-Stamford's geosciences program, the key question is whether the estimated lower earnings reflect this campus's particular employment patterns or simply the limitations of small sample sizes. With half the student body receiving Pell grants, many families here need those first-year earnings to count. Compare carefully against Eastern Connecticut State's reported outcomes, and verify what specific employment pipelines exist from this campus into Connecticut's environmental consulting firms or state agencies.
Where University of Connecticut-Stamford Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all geological and earth sciences/geosciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,472 | $39,678* | — | $24,757* | — | |
| $13,292 | $43,915* | $56,773 | $26,000* | 0.59 | |
| National Median | — | $39,678* | — | $24,757* | 0.62 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with geological and earth sciences/geosciences graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Hydrologists
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Hydrologic Technicians
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 University of Connecticut-Stamford, approximately 50% 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 national median of 103 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.