Natural Resources & Conservation Research at Ball State University
Muncie, IN · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Natural Resources Conservation and Research
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
41
Optimistic
41
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings
$34,000/yr (-2% vs median)
AI Risk
High (48% exposed)
Job Market
Large (55,700 openings/yr)
ROI
13.1x earnings multiple (4.9x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Natural Resources & Conservation Research graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $573K | $563K | $516K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 13.3x | 13.1x | 12.0x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 5.0x | 4.9x | 4.5x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 49% | 44% | 33% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 41 | 41 | 38 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$43,032
Out-of-state: $115,064 (4.9x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
9.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$57,266
68% growth from Year 1
About Ball State University
Ball State University has a 72% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 13,770 students in Muncie, IN.
See all programs and financial aid at Ball State University →Top Career Paths
Forestry and conservation science teachers, postsecondary
$100,830/yr
Environmental science teachers, postsecondary
$87,710/yr
Environmental scientists and specialists, including health
$80,060/yr
Compare & Explore
Natural Resources & Conservation Research at Other Schools
Other Majors at Ball State University
Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?
For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 41/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Natural Resources & Conservation Research at Ball State University?
At 41/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Natural Resources & Conservation Research programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Natural Resources & Conservation Research at Ball State University?
The 48% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Ball State University one of the best schools for Natural Resources & Conservation Research?
Among 256 Natural Resources & Conservation Research programs, Ball State University's #59 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →