Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Saint Cloud State University

Saint Cloud, MN · Public · Bachelor's Degree
47 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
48
Optimistic
47
Base Case
42
Pessimistic
Earnings $43,555/yr (26% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Large (55,700 openings/yr)
ROI 12.8x earnings multiple
Ranked #20 of 256 Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs Top 10%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Natural Resources Conservation and Research graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $523K $520K $483K
Earnings Multiple 12.9x 12.8x 11.9x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 48 47 42

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$40,468
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$57,940
-43% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,850
5.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$53,507
23% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $43,555 per year, Natural Resources Conservation and Research graduates from Saint Cloud State University significantly outpace the $34,545 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

With a 12.8x 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 Natural Resources Conservation and Research career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

The median debt load of $20,850 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

At #20 of 256 programs, this Natural Resources Conservation and Research program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.

A 23% earnings increase from $43,555 to $53,507 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Saint Cloud State University

With 95% of applicants admitted, Saint Cloud State University prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 5,181 in Saint Cloud, MN.

See all programs and financial aid at Saint Cloud State University →

Top Career Paths

Forestry and conservation science teachers, postsecondary $100,830/yr
Environmental science teachers, postsecondary $87,710/yr
Environmental scientists and specialists, including health $80,060/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Other Schools

Compare Natural Resources Conservation and Research

Other Majors at Saint Cloud State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 47/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Saint Cloud State University?
At 47/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Saint Cloud State University?
The 48% 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 →