Compare 6 Plant Sciences. programs in California. Average earnings: $47,000.
Plant Sciences programs produce graduates earning between $26,353 and $70,421—a $44K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 6 ranked programs in California, outcomes vary dramatically based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
California State University-Fresno's Plant Sciences program leads with graduates earning $70,421. The average across all programs is $47,000, yet this regional public outperforms more selective institutions. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo follows at $64,619 despite its 30% admission rate versus Fresno's 96% acceptance.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Fresno graduates borrow $14,505 and face just a 4.2% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. That means loan payments take a minimal bite out of their $70,421 salary, proving top programs can also be affordable.
Highest program earnings: $70,421
Strong outcomes ($70,421) with 96% acceptance
4.2% payment burden | Excellent
8.1% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $70,421 | 69 | $14,505 | Excellent | $12,050 | Good | |
| #2 | $64,619 | 65 | $18,500 | Excellent | $35,000 | Challenging | |
| #3 | $43,825 | 45 | $16,000 | Good | $15,000 | Challenging | |
| #4 | $39,927 | 8 | $18,000 | Manageable | $18,257 | High | |
| #5 | $36,852 | 29 | $13,000 | Manageable | $25,733 | High | |
| #6 | $26,353 | 13 | $16,666 | High | $28,682 | 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 →
