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Cheapest Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Colleges

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

The price gap between the most affordable geological sciences programs spans nearly $4,000, with CUNY Hunter College charging just $2,446 while others reach $6,199. This variance reflects different state funding models rather than program quality differences. CUNY schools dominate the lowest costs, with six programs under $4,000 net price. California State University campuses follow close behind, offering strong value in a state where geological sciences graduates find work with major oil companies, environmental consulting firms, and earthquake monitoring agencies. The Northeast corridor benefits from proximity to government geological survey offices and environmental remediation projects. Ohio University's regional campuses provide the lowest sticker prices at $6,178 in-state tuition, though their graduation rates of 19-20% raise completion concerns. Most programs show graduation rates between 46-69%, with University of Florida Online reaching 78% despite serving distance learners. Early career earnings range from $34,259 to $37,208, reflecting the field's steady entry-level compensation across different geological specializations and geographic markets.
50
Programs
$2,446 – $10,204
Net Price Range
$36,820
Avg. Program Earnings
48.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

50 Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $2,446 $7,382 61.0% 47.9%
2 $2,943 $7,452 56.6% 54.5%
3 $3,482 $7,410 49.3% 55.3%
4 $3,486 $7,340 54.7% 66.6%
5 $3,659 $7,064 46.9% 89.1%
6 $3,830 $7,538 60.2% 69.5%
7 $4,113 $6,813 52.6% 86.9%
8 $4,503 $6,178 20.0%
9 $4,702 $3,876 77.7% 64.6%
10 $4,734 $7,358 30.3% 59.1%
11 $5,115 $7,490 32.8%
12 $5,328 $6,178 19.3%
13 $5,646 $7,073 69.2% 66.7%
14 $5,671 $7,826 58.0% 96.6%
15 $5,825 $7,696 49.3% 86.6%
16 $5,918 $7,675 54.7% 91.1%
17 $5,970 $8,179 36.9% 80.3%
18 $5,971 $6,178 17.7%
19 $6,133 $6,178 13.7%
20 $6,199 $6,863 39.8% 27.6%
21 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
22 $6,480 $6,980 54.8% 95.4%
23 $6,483 $6,178 12.1%
24 $6,747 $8,147 52.2% 78.1%
25 $7,131 $4,656 55.1% 95.6%
26 $7,168 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
27 $7,237 $3,412 48.1% 74.2%
28 $7,599 $7,095 56.2% 91.2%
29 $8,001 $4,879 64.3% 81.3%
30 $8,155 $6,360 61.8% 48.0%
31 $8,265 $9,058 56.4% 74.4%
32 $8,327 $8,942 48.7% 96.9%
33 $8,463 $6,270 40.7%
34 $8,683 $5,498 25.2%
35 $8,896 $17,462 59.5% 97.9%
36 $8,931 $7,008 69.9% 40.0%
37 $9,002 $4,311 35.2%
38 $9,110 $14,288 61.9% 77.7%
39 $9,121 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
40 $9,133 $6,565 73.9% 63.9%
41 $9,144 $10,904 43.0% 94.7%
42 $9,634 $8,640 36.7%
43 $9,962 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
44 $9,983 $9,700 42.3% 91.4%
45 $10,011 $9,142 50.1% 85.3%
46 $10,043 $6,410 74.6% 43.9%
47 $10,044 $7,855 39.8% 72.8%
48 $10,089 $9,838 47.7% 84.0%
49 $10,097 $6,906 37.0%
50 $10,204 $9,892 45.6% 96.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes CUNY schools so affordable for geological sciences?

CUNY institutions receive substantial state subsidies that keep net prices between $2,446 and $4,734 for geological sciences students. Hunter College tops the affordability list at $2,446 net cost while maintaining a 61% graduation rate. The system's urban locations provide internship access to environmental consulting firms and government agencies. Brooklyn College offers similar value at $2,943 with a 56.6% completion rate.

How do California State University geological programs compare on cost?

CSU campuses charge between $3,659 and $5,825 in net costs for geological sciences majors. Dominguez Hills offers the lowest CSU price at $3,659 with an 89% acceptance rate, while Fullerton costs $5,646 but provides the highest earnings at $37,208. Los Angeles and Stanislaus fall in between at $4,113 and $5,671 respectively. All CSU geology programs benefit from proximity to active fault systems and industry partnerships.

Is University of Florida Online worth considering for geological sciences?

UF Online charges $4,702 net cost and achieves a 78% graduation rate, the highest among affordable options. Students earn $34,259 starting salaries with $19,737 average debt. The program accepts 65% of applicants and provides flexibility for working professionals. Online geology coursework covers core principles, though students must complete lab requirements through approved facilities.

Does program location affect geological sciences career prospects?

Regional differences significantly impact job opportunities and starting salaries in geological sciences. California graduates benefit from earthquake research funding and oil industry presence, with CSU Fullerton alumni earning $37,208. New York programs connect students to environmental consulting and government positions. Ohio's lower costs reflect fewer local industry opportunities, contributing to 19-20% graduation rates at regional campuses.

Where can students find the best graduation rates among affordable programs?

University of Florida Online leads with 78% graduation rates at $4,702 net cost. CSU Fullerton follows at 69% with $5,646 costs and top earnings. Hunter College achieves 61% completion at the lowest price of $2,446. Queens College reaches 60% at $3,830 net cost. Programs under $4,000 typically show 30-56% graduation rates, reflecting the challenges students face balancing affordability with academic demands.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.