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The University of New Orleans stands out with an $11,147 net price that makes geological sciences accessible to students planning careers in Louisiana's $73 billion oil and gas sector. Public universities here offer particularly strong value, with in-state tuition ranging from $9,172 to $11,954, while private options like Tulane reach $43,939. The state's extensive coastline and Gulf of Mexico proximity create unique research opportunities in coastal geology and sedimentary processes that directly support local petrochemical industries.
5
Programs
$11,147 – $43,939
Net Price Range
$33,625
Avg. Program Earnings
62.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,147 $9,172 42.5% 69.8%
2 $14,118 $10,418 52.0% 74.6%
3 $20,015 $11,954 71.0% 75.7%
4 $25,159 $40,000 59.3% 63.7%
5 $43,939 $65,538 88.9% 11.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge cost difference between public and private geology programs in Louisiana?

Public universities like UNO charge $11,147 net price while Tulane costs $43,939, nearly four times more. The TOPS scholarship program covers full tuition at public institutions for qualifying Louisiana residents, making schools like LSU and UL Lafayette even more affordable with strong 52-71% graduation rates.

How do geology career earnings compare to program costs in Louisiana?

Graduates from UNO earn $28,960 annually while paying just $11,147 for their degree, creating a favorable cost-to-earnings ratio. LSU graduates see higher earnings at $38,289 with moderate debt loads of $19,500, reflecting the school's stronger industry connections.

Where do Louisiana geology graduates typically find employment?

The state's massive petrochemical corridor along the Mississippi River employs many geology graduates in environmental consulting and oil exploration. Coastal restoration projects and the Port of South Louisiana also create opportunities in sediment analysis and environmental geology for recent graduates.

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