Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $29,030/yr fall 27% below the $39,933 national median for Geosciences. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
With a 17.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 8% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Geosciences career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $20,064 against $29,030/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #92 ranking among 103 Geosciences programs places Montana State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The $29,030-to-$50,960 earnings arc over five years reflects a 76% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.