Median Earnings (1yr)
$37,139
92nd percentile
Median Debt
$20,100
16% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.54
Manageable
Sample Size
42
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Nevada-Reno's Nutrition Sciences program stands out nationally with first-year earnings of $37,139—putting graduates in the 92nd percentile compared to nutrition programs across the country. That's 22% above the national median and well above even the 75th percentile benchmark. The moderate debt load of $20,100 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54, meaning graduates earn nearly twice what they owe. Within Nevada, where only two schools offer this program, UNR graduates earn substantially more than their counterparts at UNLV ($27,171).

The earnings trajectory shows steady growth to nearly $40,000 by year four, which is solid if not spectacular. What matters most here is the combination of strong starting salaries and reasonable debt—graduates aren't making doctor money, but they're clearing a meaningful threshold above typical nutrition program outcomes while keeping borrowing in check. The 24% Pell Grant population suggests this program serves economically diverse students who achieve above-average outcomes.

For an in-state student considering nutrition sciences, this program delivers clear value: better earnings than the alternative Nevada option, top-tier national performance, and debt you can realistically manage on an entry-level nutrition salary. The relatively accessible admission rate (85%) means qualified students have a realistic shot at these outcomes.

Where University of Nevada-Reno Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all nutrition sciences bachelors's programs nationally

University of Nevada-RenoOther nutrition sciences programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Nevada-Reno graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Nevada-Reno graduates earn $37k, placing them in the 92th percentile of all nutrition sciences bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Nevada

Nutrition Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nevada (2 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Nevada-Reno$37,139$39,738$20,1000.54
University of Nevada-Las Vegas$27,171—$15,8150.58
National Median$30,508—$24,0200.79

Other Nutrition Sciences Programs in Nevada

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Nevada schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
Las Vegas
$9,142$27,171$15,815

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 Nevada-Reno, approximately 24% 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 42 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.