Compare 8 Forestry. programs in the Midwest. Average earnings: $46,436.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Forestry tells a different story. Across 8 programs, earnings range from $39,178 to $57,000—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities' Forestry program leads with graduates earning $57,000, well above the $46,436 average. Michigan Tech follows at $53,543, while Wisconsin-Stevens Point delivers $50,461—proving regional publics dominate this field regardless of overall institutional prestige.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Minnesota graduates borrow $19,500 and face just a 7.8% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. Wisconsin-Stevens Point leads for families with an 18.5% burden, demonstrating that the best choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $57,000
Strong outcomes ($50,461) with 90% acceptance
7.8% payment burden | Excellent
18.5% family burden | Challenging
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $57,000 | 44 | $19,500 | Excellent | $25,729 | Challenging | |
| #2 | $53,543 | 21 | $24,990 | Good | $29,300 | High | |
| #3 | $50,461 | 69 | $21,503 | Good | $14,012 | Challenging | |
| #4 | $46,984 | 49 | $21,543 | Manageable | $19,500 | Challenging | |
| #5 | $43,029 | 20 | $19,500 | Manageable | $29,448 | High | |
| #6 | $40,808 | 14 | $20,500 | Manageable | $32,529 | High | |
| #7 | Iowa State UniversityPublic | $40,488 | 29 | $22,869 | Manageable | $25,950 | High |
| #8 | $39,178 | 22 | $23,250 | Challenging | $37,401 | 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 →
