Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology at Utah State University

A first-year salary around $41,000 is standard for atmospheric sciences graduates nationally, and the estimated $24,250 in debt from Utah State falls slightly below the typical $25,500 that programs in this field produce. That 0.59 debt-to-earnings ratio—where you'd owe roughly seven months of gross income—represents manageable starting debt for a technical STEM field, though it's worth noting these figures come from comparable programs nationwide since Utah State's meteorology cohort is too small to report outcomes separately.

The challenge with atmospheric sciences is less about the debt than the career trajectory. Meteorology positions often require specialized certifications or graduate work to advance beyond entry-level forecasting roles, and the field is relatively small—competitive positions at the National Weather Service or major research institutions are limited. The estimated $41,000 starting point reflects this reality: it's solid but not spectacular for a four-year science degree, and growth depends heavily on where your child lands and whether they pursue advanced credentials.

With only two schools offering this major in Utah and limited local job opportunities in the field, consider whether your child is prepared to relocate for the best positions. The debt load is reasonable enough that they won't be trapped by payments, but the estimated earnings suggest this is a degree for someone genuinely passionate about weather science rather than someone chasing high-paying tech careers.