Program Analysis
Missouri University of Science and Technology's Geological/Geophysical Engineering program produces graduates earning $64,503/yr — within striking distance of the $63,981 national average for this field.
The 11.6x 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 — 46% task exposure — and the 12% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $19,249 in median debt clears quickly against $64,503 in annual earnings.
With only 4 programs offering Geological/Geophysical Engineering nationally, this is a niche field. Missouri University of Science and Technology ranks #1 among them.
Earnings growth is modest: $64,503 to $73,496 over five years (14% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.