Wildlife and Wildlands Science and Management at Valley City State University

Valley City State University's wildlife science graduates are earning $44,253 their first year out—an impressive 54% premium over the national median for this field and ranking in the 95th percentile nationally. This is remarkable for a program in a state where wildlife management careers might seem limited, though the single-school status in North Dakota means we're essentially looking at the only game in town for this specific degree. The $25,500 median debt sits right at the national average, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 that's quite manageable for a field that typically struggles with low pay.

The caveat here is significant: we're looking at fewer than 30 graduates, so these numbers could shift dramatically with the next cohort. The minimal earnings growth from year one to year four (just 2%) suggests graduates find their salary ceiling quickly, which is common in natural resource management where government positions dominate. For a family comfortable with the realities of wildlife careers—seasonal work, rural locations, modest compensation—this program delivers unusually strong starting outcomes. But if your student is choosing this field expecting significant income growth or urban job options, the flat earnings trajectory and specialized nature of the work deserve serious consideration before committing.