Science Technology Studiesat Northern Arizona University
Graduates earn $44,338/yr in their first year — about 18.0% below the national Science Technology Studies average. Base-case 10-year earnings $546K; scenarios range from $504K to $553K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University's program in Science Technologies/Technicians, Other, uniquely positions you for hands-on roles supporting environmental, geological, and hydrological research, often in the field. Given Flagstaff's natural surroundings and NAU's strong reputation in environmental science, you'll find opportunities with local government agencies like the US Forest Service, National Park Service, or state environmental protection departments, as well as smaller regional consulting firms. These roles, while incredibly important for conservation and data collection, typically reflect public sector or research support compensation structures, which explains the program's standing relative to the national average for this niche field.
The identified high AI risk signals that many routine data collection, analysis, and monitoring tasks are becoming automated. To thrive, focus on developing critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and the indispensable ability to interpret nuanced field conditions that machines cannot yet replicate. Your actionable advice: actively seek internships that provide experience with advanced instrumentation and data interpretation, building a specialized skillset that complements technological advancements rather than being replaced by them.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Northern Arizona University's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Science Technology Studies
How Northern Arizona University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Northern Arizona University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Northern Arizona University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Science Technology Studies offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Science Technology Studies trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Science Technology Studies at Northern Arizona University
What does a 45/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Science Technology Studies at Northern Arizona University?
At 45/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Science Technology Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Science Technology Studies at Northern Arizona 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 Northern Arizona University a good choice for Science Technology Studies despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Northern Arizona University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.