Geography and Cartography at University of North Alabama

Geography graduates from the University of North Alabama earn solidly above the national median for their field, starting at $41,076 and climbing to nearly $50,000 by year four—a 21% increase that suggests real career progression. Among Alabama's eight geography programs, UNA ranks in the 60th percentile, meaning it outperforms most in-state alternatives while keeping debt remarkably low. At $28,500, graduates carry just slightly more debt than the state median but far less than what most college students face nationally (5th percentile), translating to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69.

The trajectory here is encouraging: starting salaries exceed national benchmarks, and the steady earnings growth indicates graduates are moving into better-paying positions as they gain experience. Geography isn't typically a high-earning field—the national median hovers around $38,700—but UNA's outcomes beat that baseline while offering an accessible path (96% admission rate) without crushing debt loads.

For families concerned about ROI, this program delivers what you'd hope for: earnings that match or exceed comparable programs, reasonable debt that graduates can manage on their actual salaries, and a clear upward earnings path. It's a practical choice for students interested in this field, particularly for Alabama residents looking to stay in-state.