Plant Sciences at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Tech's Plant Sciences program lands right in the middle of the pack nationally, with graduates earning $42,861 in their first year—essentially matching the national median. Within Virginia, it ranks in the 60th percentile, though this distinction matters less since it's the only program of its kind in the state. The $20,687 in typical debt translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48, meaning graduates owe about half of their first-year salary. For a specialized agricultural science degree from a respected land-grant university, these numbers represent a reasonable starting point.

The modest 5% earnings growth to $45,166 by year four suggests this field may require additional credentials or specialization for significant advancement. Plant sciences graduates often pursue graduate degrees, work in agricultural extension services, or enter research roles where initial compensation remains steady. This isn't necessarily problematic—it reflects the nature of agricultural science careers rather than a failing of the program itself.

For families considering this path, the key question is whether your student is genuinely drawn to plant biology, crop science, or agricultural research. The economics work if they're committed to the field: reasonable debt, steady employment, and the foundation for graduate work if desired. But this isn't a lucrative bachelor's-only career path, so passion for the subject matter should drive the decision more than earning potential alone.