Nutrition & Food Science at Stephen F Austin State University

Nacogdoches, TX · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
41 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
42
Optimistic
41
Base Case
42
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,168/yr (-17% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (306,000 openings/yr)
ROI 12.9x earnings multiple (6.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #28 of 38 Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services programs

Program Analysis

The financial outlook for this program presents unique challenges, largely influenced by the regional labor market and the broad nature of the degree. Nacogdoches, a smaller, more rural market, often provides fewer high-paying opportunities for graduates in general nutrition or food service management compared to major metropolitan areas. You’ll likely find roles in local schools, nursing homes, or community health initiatives, which typically offer more modest compensation. While paths like becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist exist, the general "Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services" scope may not directly provide the specific accreditation and supervised practice needed for those higher-paying, specialized clinical roles. Your career trajectory will heavily depend on additional certifications or advanced degrees. If this field is your passion, consider pursuing specific certifications or relocating to a larger city with a more diverse healthcare and corporate wellness sector to maximize your earning potential.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Nutrition & Food Science graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $552K $547K $505K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.0x 12.9x 11.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.7x 6.6x 6.1x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 47% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 42 41 42

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$42,400
Out-of-state: $82,720 (6.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$60,608
-43% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,250
11.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,277
92% growth from Year 1

About Stephen F Austin State University

A 88% acceptance rate means Stephen F Austin State University is accessible to most applicants, enrolling 8,746 students in Nacogdoches, TX.

See all programs and financial aid at Stephen F Austin State University →

Top Career Paths

Family and consumer sciences teachers, postsecondary $77,280/yr
Dietitians and nutritionists $73,850/yr
Food service managers $65,310/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Nutrition & Food Science at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 41/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Nutrition & Food Science at Stephen F Austin State University?
At 41/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Nutrition & Food Science programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Nutrition & Food Science at Stephen F Austin State University?
The 45% 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 Stephen F Austin State University a good choice for Nutrition & Food Science despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Stephen F Austin 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 →