Natural Resources & Conservation Research at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Natural Resources Conservation and Research
32 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
32
Optimistic
32
Base Case
30
Pessimistic
Earnings $29,264/yr (-15% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Large (55,700 openings/yr)
ROI 8.7x earnings multiple (2.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #149 of 256 Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs

Program Analysis

While the initial earnings might seem modest for a top-tier university, that data doesn't capture the full picture. Many graduates from Michigan's renowned School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) don't enter high-paying corporate jobs immediately. Instead, they pursue prestigious but lower-paying research positions, join non-profits, or enter government agencies like the Michigan DNR or the EPA. This program is a powerful launchpad for graduate school, which is a prerequisite for the high-level scientific and academic careers where Michigan alumni truly excel. The value here is less about your first job and more about the access to a powerful research network and a brand name that opens doors to influential roles in policy and academia later on. To maximize your investment, aggressively pursue the undergraduate research opportunities SEAS offers to build relationships with faculty who will be your champions for grad school or top-tier jobs.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $614K $600K $544K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 8.9x 8.7x 7.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 2.6x 2.6x 2.3x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 32 32 30

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$68,912
Out-of-state: $232,288 (2.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,328
14% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$15,500
6.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$59,553
104% growth from Year 1

About University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor admits 18% of applicants, placing it among selective institutions, with 33,488 students enrolled in Ann Arbor, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor →

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 Research at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

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 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Natural Resources & Conservation Research at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
At 32/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Natural Resources & Conservation Research programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Natural Resources & Conservation Research at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
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.
Is University of Michigan-Ann Arbor a good choice for Natural Resources & Conservation Research despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Michigan-Ann Arbor'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 →