Forestry at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

Similar forestry bachelor's programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $43,000 against estimated debt of $22,600—yielding a debt-to-income ratio of 0.53 that falls within manageable territory. This ratio means graduates would carry roughly six months' worth of first-year salary in debt, which represents a reasonable starting point for a field where career advancement often comes through experience and specialized certifications rather than immediate high salaries.

The challenge with forestry programs is that first-year earnings don't tell the full story. Natural resource management careers typically involve geographic flexibility, with better opportunities in regions with active timber industries or substantial public lands. New Hampshire's limited forestry sector means graduates may need to look beyond state lines for optimal positions, and UNH's relatively high admission rate (87%) suggests less selective entry than some competing programs.

The real question is whether your child has genuine interest in outdoor fieldwork and resource management, since forestry isn't a degree that translates easily into adjacent careers if they change direction. The estimated debt load won't sink them financially, but forestry positions often require years of seasonal or contract work before landing permanent roles. If they're committed to the field and comfortable with that timeline, the numbers work. If they're uncertain, programs with broader career applications might offer more flexibility.