Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, CO · Public · Bachelor's Degree
43 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
44
Optimistic
43
Base Case
42
Pessimistic
Earnings $46,954/yr (18% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Medium (15,600 openings/yr)
ROI 10.8x earnings multiple (5.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #45 of 103 Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $524K $520K $490K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.9x 10.8x 10.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.0x 5.0x 4.7x
Probability of Field Employment 68% 60% 46%
DegreeOutlook Score 44 43 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)
$48,040
Out-of-state: $104,816 (5.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$73,828
-54% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,121
6.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$52,921
13% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $46,954 at University of Northern Colorado come in 18% above the national median of $39,933 for Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences programs.

With a 10.8x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $24,121 against $46,954/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #45 ranking among 103 Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences programs places University of Northern Colorado in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

About University of Northern Colorado

University of Northern Colorado accepts 86% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, enrolling 5,693 students in Greeley, CO.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Northern Colorado →

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

Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 43/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at University of Northern Colorado?
At 43/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at University of Northern Colorado?
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 →