Analysis
The estimated $25,735 in debt for this landscape architecture degree—based on borrowing patterns across University of Kentucky's bachelor's programs—represents a manageable burden against $52,841 in first-year earnings. That 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates could potentially pay off their loans in six months of gross income, a favorable position in today's higher education landscape.
University of Kentucky is the only school in the state offering a bachelor's in landscape architecture, which limits direct comparison but also suggests a degree of market positioning. The $52,841 starting salary matches the national median exactly, placing graduates right in the middle of the pack compared to the 61 programs nationwide. This isn't a field known for explosive early earnings—even top-quartile programs nationally only reach about $54,777—so the real value comes from steady employment in a specialized profession with licensing potential.
The practical calculus here is straightforward: modest debt for credentials that lead to a defined career path. While we're working with estimated debt figures rather than actual graduate outcomes from this specific program, the fundamental equation—roughly half a year's earnings in loans for entry into a profession with clear career progression—suggests reasonable value. For students genuinely interested in landscape architecture, this represents a solid in-state option without the financial strain that burdens many bachelor's degree holders.
Where University of Kentucky Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all landscape architecture bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Kentucky graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Landscape Architecture bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,212 | $52,841 | — | $25,735* | — | |
| $11,954 | $60,668 | $62,645 | —* | — | |
| $10,758 | $59,972 | $64,800 | —* | — | |
| $11,075 | $58,331 | $58,474 | $22,433* | 0.38 | |
| $16,408 | $57,920 | $54,744 | —* | — | |
| $11,180 | $54,777 | $60,412 | $27,000* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | — | $52,841 | — | $25,734* | 0.49 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with landscape architecture graduates
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 Kentucky, approximately 22% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 17 graduates with reported earnings and 16 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.