Geosciences at Montana State University
Bozeman, MT · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
33
Optimistic
32
Base Case
41
Pessimistic
Earnings
$29,030/yr (-27% vs median)
AI Risk
High (47% exposed)
Job Market
Medium (15,600 openings/yr)
ROI
17.1x earnings multiple (4.4x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Geosciences graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $560K | $553K | $515K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 17.3x | 17.1x | 15.9x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.5x | 4.4x | 4.1x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 68% | 60% | 46% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 33 | 32 | 41 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$32,332
Out-of-state: $125,348 (4.4x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,064
8.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,960
76% growth from Year 1
About Montana State University
Montana State University has a 87% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 14,472 students in Bozeman, MT.
See all programs and financial aid at Montana State University →Top Career Paths
Natural sciences managers
$161,180/yr
Atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers, postsecondary
$101,390/yr
Geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers
$99,240/yr
Compare & Explore
Geosciences at Other Schools
Other Majors at Montana State University
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Geosciences at Montana State University?
At 32/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Geosciences programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Geosciences at Montana State University?
The 47% 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 Montana State University a good choice for Geosciences despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Montana State University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →