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Cheapest Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Colleges in Pennsylvania

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

Pennsylvania's Geological and Earth Sciences programs show a dramatic cost divide that defies typical patterns. While Harrisburg University of Science and Technology offers the state's most affordable net price at $13,766, elite institutions like Haverford College reach $25,210 despite generous aid packages that bring their sticker price down from $68,300. This gap reflects the varied pathways available to future geoscientists in a state where energy companies, environmental consulting firms, and mining operations create steady demand for earth science expertise. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with East Stroudsburg University offering an in-state rate of just $11,036. Pennsylvania's geology ranges from Appalachian coal fields to Marcellus Shale formations, making it a natural laboratory for students while companies like CONSOL Energy and environmental consultancies actively recruit graduates. The earnings potential varies significantly, from $31,081 to $42,682, with Millersville University graduates commanding the highest early-career salaries at $42,682 despite the program's $20,231 net cost.
30
Programs
$13,766 – $40,690
Net Price Range
$40,601
Avg. Program Earnings
68.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

30 Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,766 $23,900 43.4% 84.3%
2 $15,089 $11,036 43.8% 93.6%
3 $16,630 $14,620 43.4% 93.6%
4 $17,216 $11,380 52.4% 91.9%
5 $18,686 $62,412 94.1% 6.9%
6 $18,952 $14,646 53.4% 97.4%
7 $19,524 $10,507 65.9% 74.3%
8 $20,231 $12,262 54.4% 92.4%
9 $21,205 $11,230 54.1% 96.1%
10 $21,409 $35,570 57.9% 94.3%
11 $21,461 $17,850 41.2% 80.7%
12 $21,900 $54,960 66.5% 69.7%
13 $22,673 $10,687 69.8% 87.9%
14 $23,553 $13,544 51.6% 87.8%
15 $25,210 $68,300 89.4% 14.2%
16 $26,539 $57,400 74.1% 76.7%
17 $27,263 $44,510 58.7% 80.6%
18 $27,663 $56,402 68.9% 76.2%
19 $27,700 $42,286 60.3% 94.1%
20 $29,219 $22,082 74.7% 79.7%
21 $29,843 $52,000 71.1% 67.0%
22 $30,074 $21,524 84.3% 49.1%
23 $31,229 $66,104 96.8% 6.5%
24 $32,191 $63,475 83.4% 34.9%
25 $32,496 $62,574 88.1% 33.6%
26 $33,549 $62,180 89.2% 37.0%
27 $38,428 $60,663 77.1% 79.6%
28 $39,061 $68,380 86.0% 36.2%
29 $40,429 $64,772 86.2% 32.6%
30 $40,690 $62,560 85.6% 30.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $11,900 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

The gap between Harrisburg University at $13,766 and Haverford College at $25,210 reflects institutional type and aid strategies rather than program quality. Harrisburg University, a private institution focused on STEM fields, offers competitive pricing to attract students. Haverford College, despite its $68,300 sticker price, provides substantial need-based aid. Public universities like East Stroudsburg fall in between with net costs around $15,089.

How do Pennsylvania geology graduates' earnings compare across different schools?

Millersville University graduates earn the highest early-career salaries at $42,682, nearly $12,000 more than University of Pittsburgh-Bradford graduates who earn $31,081. Slippery Rock University and Kutztown University graduates earn $38,289 and $39,729 respectively. These differences often reflect regional job markets and industry connections rather than program cost.

Is Swarthmore College worth considering despite its 6.93% acceptance rate?

Swarthmore College accepts fewer than 7% of applicants but delivers a 94.1% graduation rate, the highest among Pennsylvania geology programs. The $18,686 net cost represents strong value given the college's $62,412 sticker price. However, students must weigh the extremely competitive admissions process against more accessible options with strong outcomes.

Does attending a public university guarantee lower costs for geology students?

Not necessarily, though public universities typically offer better value for in-state students. East Stroudsburg University charges just $11,036 for residents, while West Chester University charges $10,687. However, private institutions like Harrisburg University at $13,766 can compete with public school net prices. Out-of-state students face significantly higher costs at public universities.

Where do Pennsylvania's geology job opportunities align with program locations?

Pennsylvania's energy sector, including Marcellus Shale operations and traditional coal mining, creates demand throughout the state. Environmental consulting firms cluster around Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, while companies like CONSOL Energy recruit from programs statewide. The state's varied geology, from Appalachian formations to coastal plains, provides field experience opportunities regardless of campus location.

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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.