Analysis
A 0.52 debt-to-earnings ratio sits in reasonable territory for agriculture programs, where first-year compensation often reflects entry-level positions in farm management, agribusiness, or extension services rather than immediate high earnings. With estimated debt around $20,625—based on what similar public institutions report for bachelor's programs—and first-year earnings pegged at the national agriculture median of $39,438, graduates would face manageable monthly payments relative to income. The 31% Pell enrollment suggests the university serves students who need affordable pathways into agricultural careers.
What makes University of Guam's program harder to evaluate is its unique position as Guam's only agriculture bachelor's option. The island's distinct agricultural economy—focused on tropical crops, aquaculture, and food security challenges specific to Pacific islands—means career prospects likely differ substantially from mainland programs. Comparable programs nationally suggest this debt-to-earnings pattern, but whether Guam's agricultural sector offers sufficient opportunities, competitive wages adjusted for local cost of living, or career advancement potential remains uncertain without school-specific data.
For families considering this program, the financial framework appears workable on paper, but investigate the local employment landscape directly. Connect with current students and recent alumni about actual job placements, starting salaries in Guam versus opportunities requiring relocation, and whether the degree opens doors in regional agricultural development or requires leaving the territory for career growth.
Where University of Guam Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all agriculture bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Agriculture bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,110 | $39,438* | — | $20,625* | — | |
| $11,075 | $64,786* | $57,972 | $21,903* | 0.34 | |
| $13,099 | $59,625* | $56,790 | $18,585* | 0.31 | |
| $10,857 | $55,828* | — | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| $11,852 | $54,596* | $42,800 | $27,000* | 0.49 | |
| $66,014 | $53,465* | $48,476 | $15,599* | 0.29 | |
| National Median | — | $39,438* | — | $20,625* | 0.52 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with agriculture graduates
Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Animal Scientists
Food Scientists and Technologists
Soil and Plant Scientists
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture 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 Guam, approximately 31% 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 47 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.