Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at University of New Orleans

In Louisiana, geosciences programs typically start graduates around $42,000, but peer programs nationally suggest UNO's outcomes may fall slightly below that mark at roughly $40,000 in first-year earnings. That's a modest income for a STEM degree, though the field-specific job market in New Orleans—with its proximity to oil and gas operations—could mean more variation in outcomes than these estimates capture.

The estimated debt load of about $25,000 puts the debt-to-earnings ratio at 0.62, which is manageable by most standards and roughly in line with what you'd see across similar geosciences programs nationally. However, it's worth noting that Louisiana's median debt for this field sits lower at $19,500, suggesting some programs in the state produce lighter debt burdens. With 40% of students receiving Pell grants, many UNO families are working with limited resources where every dollar of debt matters.

The four-year earnings figure of $42,111 shows modest growth and suggests the program eventually catches up to state norms, but that's cold comfort for graduates facing lean early years. For a family weighing this investment, the key question is whether geology is the genuine passion—because the financial payoff isn't dramatic enough to justify the degree on economics alone. If your child is set on this field, this program won't bury them in debt, but don't expect outsized returns either.