Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology at University of Nebraska-Lincoln

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59—based on peer atmospheric sciences programs nationally—suggests this degree could be financially manageable, though the small number of programs reporting data (only 11 for earnings, 10 for debt) means there's considerable uncertainty. Meteorology careers often require specialized training, and similar bachelor's programs typically produce first-year earnings around $41,000. This puts graduates in a position to handle estimated debt of $24,250 with careful budgeting, assuming monthly payments of roughly $250-300 over ten years.

The challenge is that atmospheric sciences is a niche field where outcomes can vary significantly based on whether graduates enter government positions (like the National Weather Service), private sector roles, or continue to graduate school. With only two schools in Nebraska offering this program and no state-level data available, it's difficult to assess how UNL specifically prepares students for these pathways. The national benchmarks show remarkably tight clustering—the 75th percentile is barely $100 above the median—suggesting the field has consistent but modest early-career pay regardless of where you study.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether your student is committed to meteorology specifically or using this as a general science degree. If it's the former and they're prepared for the reality of $40,000 starting salaries, the debt load appears sustainable. If they're less certain about the career path, that $24,000 in loans creates risk in a specialized field with limited flexibility.