Agriculture at University of Maryland-College Park

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 based on peer agriculture programs nationwide signals manageable debt, though the real story here is what happens after year one. While similar programs suggest first-year earnings around $39,438, this program's reported four-year earnings of $62,121 show a 58% jump—a trajectory that should ease any initial concerns about starting salaries. That growth pattern is typical in agricultural careers where fieldwork and entry-level positions give way to farm management, agribusiness roles, or specialized technical positions.

The estimated $20,625 debt load aligns with national medians for agriculture bachelor's programs, putting graduates roughly six months of first-year earnings in the hole. Given UMD's selectivity and the program's demonstrated mid-career earnings, this represents a reasonable investment for students genuinely committed to the field. Agriculture degrees serve specific career paths—not general business roles—so fit matters more than raw numbers.

The practical takeaway: if your child is drawn to agricultural science, sustainability, or food systems work, the estimated financial picture here won't derail them. The four-year earnings data suggests this program delivers on agriculture's promise of steady advancement, even if the starting line looks modest. Just confirm they're committed to the sector itself, not just pursuing a bachelor's degree for its own sake.