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Geosciences at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
37 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
41
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,871/yr (-3% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Medium (15,600 openings/yr)
ROI 13.1x earnings multiple (3.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #77 of 103 Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences programs

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 $461K $464K $447K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.0x 13.1x 12.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.6x 3.7x 3.5x
Probability of Field Employment 68% 60% 46%
DegreeOutlook Score 38 37 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)
$35,580
Out-of-state: $127,068 (3.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,724
-90% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,029
6.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$51,876
33% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

North Carolina State University at Raleigh's Geosciences program produces graduates earning $38,871/yr — within striking distance of the $39,933 national average for this field.

With a 13.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 3% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Geosciences career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $20,029 against $38,871/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #77 ranking among 103 Geosciences programs places North Carolina State University at Raleigh in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Admission to North Carolina State University at Raleigh is competitive, with 40% of applicants accepted, with 26,389 students enrolled in Raleigh, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at North Carolina State University at Raleigh →

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
View all 7 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Compare this program → View all 103 schools offering Geosciences →

Geosciences at Other Schools

University of Houston-Downtown ($50,894) Kean University ($50,645) Iowa State University ($50,150) College of Charleston ($49,786) Texas Tech University ($49,727) University of Utah ($49,446) California State Polytechnic University-Pomona ($49,406) University of South Florida ($48,565)

Other Majors at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Computer Science ($85,809) Computer Engineering ($82,997) Chemical Engineering ($81,492) Industrial Engineering ($81,055) Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering ($77,687) Construction Engineering ($76,574) Nuclear Engineering ($74,540) Materials Engineering ($74,058)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Geosciences at North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
At 37/100, 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 North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →