Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Indiana University-Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN · Public · Bachelor's Degree
30 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
31
Optimistic
30
Base Case
28
Pessimistic
Earnings $32,469/yr (-6% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Large (55,700 openings/yr)
ROI 10.5x earnings multiple (3.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #165 of 256 Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Natural Resources Conservation and Research graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $433K $440K $423K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.4x 10.5x 10.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.2x 3.3x 3.1x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 31 30 28

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$41,796
Out-of-state: $134,868 (3.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$45,632
-9% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,692
9.9 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $32,469/yr, roughly in line with the $34,545 national median for Natural Resources Conservation and Research. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.

With a 10.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Natural Resources Conservation and Research career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $26,692 against $32,469/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #165 ranking among 256 Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs places Indiana University-Indianapolis in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Indiana University-Indianapolis

Indiana University-Indianapolis accepts 81% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, enrolling 16,582 students in Indianapolis, IN.

See all programs and financial aid at Indiana University-Indianapolis →

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
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Other Schools

Other Majors at Indiana University-Indianapolis

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 30/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Indiana University-Indianapolis?
At 30/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Indiana University-Indianapolis?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →