Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology at University of Missouri-Columbia

The small sample size here makes it hard to draw firm conclusions, but the debt picture deserves serious attention. With $18,625 in median debt, Mizzou's atmospheric sciences program places in the 95th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of comparable programs saddle students with more debt. That's genuinely impressive. Combined with $41,430 in first-year earnings (matching the national median exactly), the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 is quite manageable. For context, only one other Missouri school offers this program, and their numbers are identical, so there's limited in-state comparison available.

The earnings trajectory shows solid 19% growth by year four, reaching nearly $50,000, which suggests graduates find stable footing in the field. However, atmospheric sciences careers can vary widely—from broadcast meteorology to research positions—and outcomes likely depend heavily on which path graduates pursue. The national earnings data clusters tightly (the 75th percentile is barely higher than the median), indicating this field has fairly consistent, if modest, earning potential regardless of where you study.

For parents weighing this program, the low debt burden is the standout advantage. If your child is genuinely passionate about weather and climate science, Mizzou offers a cost-effective entry point to the field. Just recognize that meteorology isn't a high-earning profession compared to other STEM fields, though job stability tends to be strong.