Geography and Cartography at University of Georgia

UGA's Geography and Cartography program starts alarmingly low—$26,801 in the first year ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally—but graduates show impressive momentum, nearly doubling their earnings to $47,688 by year four. That 78% growth trajectory matters, though parents should note that even with this improvement, first-year earnings trail both the national median ($38,726) and Georgia's state median ($33,410) by significant margins. Within Georgia, this program ranks in the 25th percentile, well behind Kennesaw State's $40,020.

The $22,133 debt load is reasonable and manageable given the earnings growth, with graduates owing less than one year's salary by year four. However, the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates—means these numbers could shift significantly year to year. That first-year figure is concerning enough that families should have frank conversations about financial support during those early career years.

If your child is passionate about cartography or GIS work and UGA offers other advantages (in-state tuition, specific faculty, or networking opportunities), the strong earnings growth suggests the degree can pay off with patience. But Kennesaw State appears to offer a faster path to solid earnings in this field. Make sure there's a financial runway for those tough first couple of years.