Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

Based on comparable Wisconsin geoscience programs, this bachelor's degree leads to estimated first-year earnings of $43,000 against roughly $26,000 in debt—a manageable 0.60 ratio that matches both state and national medians for the field. Geoscience isn't a high-earning STEM path initially, but this debt load won't strangle your graduate financially. That said, these estimates come from just four Wisconsin programs, and actual outcomes at UW-Green Bay could vary. The nearby comparisons—like UW-Eau Claire at $44,207 and UW-Madison at $43,068—suggest consistency across the state system, though UW-Parkside's $29,117 shows the range of possibilities.

What matters here is the career trajectory beyond year one. Geoscience careers often require graduate work or gain value through experience in environmental consulting, natural resources, or energy sectors where Wisconsin has established industries. The modest debt gives your child flexibility to pursue those paths without being boxed in by loan payments. At an 88% admission rate, UW-Green Bay offers accessible entry to a field where the credential matters more than institutional prestige.

The practical move: confirm what percentage of graduates pursue employment versus graduate school, and what industries hire from this program. If most continue their education, factor in additional debt. If they're landing jobs with Wisconsin's environmental firms or agencies, these estimates probably reflect reality reasonably well.