Program Analysis
Appalachian State University's Geosciences program produces graduates earning $35,021/yr — within striking distance of the $39,933 national average for this field.
The 17.9x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. By pure financial math, this is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 47% task exposure — and the 8% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $22,291 debt-to-$35,021 income ratio translates to about 8 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #69 out of 103 programs, Appalachian State University's financial outcomes for Geosciences trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $35,021 to $52,194 shows 49% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.