Compare 5 Environmental Studies. programs in Iowa. Average earnings: $42,602.
Environmental Studies programs produce graduates earning between $25,194 and $54,860—a $30K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 5 ranked programs in Iowa, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
Iowa State University's Environmental Studies program leads with graduates earning $54,860, well above the $42,602 state average. The University of Iowa follows at $48,825, while Upper Iowa University delivers $47,573—proving that strong environmental programs exist beyond the traditional flagship hierarchy.
Highest program earnings: $54,860
Strong outcomes with 89% acceptance
9.7% payment burden | Good - payment 8-12% of discretionary
22.4% family burden | Challenging - payment 18-25% of discretionary
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa State UniversityPublic | $54,860 | 89 | $22,869 | Good | $25,950 | Challenging |
| #2 | University Of IowaPublic | $48,825 | 68 | $22,500 | Good | $27,975 | High |
| #3 | Upper Iowa UniversityPrivate | $47,573 | 23 | $25,000 | Manageable | $14,000 | Challenging |
| #4 | University Of DubuquePrivate | $36,560 | 5 | $25,750 | High | $21,000 | High |
| #5 | Luther CollegePrivate | $25,194 | 13 | $27,000 | High | $40,923 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
