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Cheapest Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Colleges in North Carolina

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

Elizabeth City State University offers North Carolina's most affordable geological sciences program at just $7,237 net cost, nearly five times less than Duke University's $34,454. This dramatic price spread among the state's 11 programs creates clear pathways for students pursuing earth science careers in North Carolina's expanding Research Triangle tech sector, where geoscientists support environmental consulting and groundwater management projects. While earnings typically range from $28,598 to $33,993 for graduates, the low-cost options at public universities like Elizabeth City State and Western Carolina University make geological education accessible without overwhelming debt burdens.
11
Programs
$7,237 – $34,454
Net Price Range
$31,213
Avg. Program Earnings
67.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,237 $3,412 48.1% 74.2%
2 $12,579 $4,532 59.1% 84.8%
3 $12,983 $8,989 92.1% 17.1%
4 $14,745 $7,214 67.7% 79.6%
5 $15,028 $6,542 46.0% 84.4%
6 $16,487 $7,541 73.1% 83.1%
7 $16,514 $7,361 62.1% 92.3%
8 $16,931 $8,895 84.6% 47.2%
9 $19,472 $7,317 70.7% 68.8%
10 $21,200 $41,140 47.7% 83.5%
11 $34,454 $65,805 95.8% 6.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Elizabeth City State University stand out for geological sciences cost?

Elizabeth City State offers the lowest net cost at $7,237 with just $3,412 for in-state students. However, the graduation rate sits at 48.10%, which is notably lower than other public options in the state.

How do North Carolina's public geological sciences programs compare in graduation rates?

UNC Chapel Hill leads with a 92.10% graduation rate, followed by NC State at 84.60%. Western Carolina University maintains a solid 59.10% rate while keeping net costs under $13,000.

Does earning potential vary significantly among North Carolina geological sciences graduates?

East Carolina University graduates earn the highest at $33,993, while UNC Wilmington graduates start at $28,598. The $5,395 difference shows earnings potential varies even within the public university system.

Where can students find the best value combining cost and outcomes?

NC State offers strong value with $16,931 net cost, 84.60% graduation rate, and $30,409 starting salary. The debt load averages just $20,029, making it manageable for geological sciences careers.

More Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Rankings

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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.