Program Analysis
West Virginia University's Geosciences program produces graduates earning $36,382/yr — within striking distance of the $39,933 national average for this field.
Every dollar of in-state tuition returns an estimated 13.0x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Geosciences programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Geosciences's typical career paths, with 47% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 5% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $22,719 represents roughly 7 months of the $36,382 starting salary — a manageable burden by most borrower standards.
Ranked #84 of 103 Geosciences programs, West Virginia University falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $36,382 to $47,923 over five years — a 32% increase that's moderate and in line with typical career progression.