Compare 7 Packaging Science. programs in the South. Average earnings: $68,805.
Packaging Science programs produce graduates earning between $47,998 and $80,284—a $32K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 7 ranked programs in the South, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute And State University's Packaging Science program leads with graduates earning $80,284, while Clemson University follows closely at $78,978. The regional average sits at $68,805, with Middle Tennessee State University proving that strong outcomes aren't limited to the most selective schools—their graduates earn $74,671 with a 68% acceptance rate.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Virginia Tech graduates borrow $21,500 and face just a 5.1% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. For families considering parent loans, Middle Tennessee State offers the best deal with a 9.6% family burden in the 'Good' tier, proving smart program choice beats paying premium prices.
Highest program earnings: $80,284
Strong outcomes ($80,284) with 57% acceptance
5.1% payment burden | Excellent
9.6% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $80,284 | 35 | $21,500 | Excellent | $35,325 | Manageable | |
| #2 | Clemson UniversityPublic | $78,978 | 66 | $21,500 | Excellent | $35,463 | Manageable |
| #3 | $74,671 | 53 | $20,000 | Excellent | $14,229 | Good | |
| #4 | $74,244 | 5 | $22,310 | Excellent | $14,836 | Good | |
| #5 | $63,749 | 14 | $22,500 | Excellent | $14,685 | Manageable | |
| #6 | $61,709 | 41 | $19,500 | Excellent | $17,353 | Manageable | |
| #7 | $47,998 | 16 | $22,250 | Good | $10,050 | Challenging |
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 →
