Compare 6 Soil Sciences. programs ranked by graduate earnings. Average earnings: $67,888. Top programs: $88,563+.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Soil Sciences tells a different story. Across 6 programs, earnings range from $57,348 to $88,563—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation. The nearly $31K spread means where you study soil science matters far more than how your school ranks nationally.
Topping the list, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville's Soil Sciences program delivers $88,563 in median earnings—well above the $67,888 field average. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, a regional public with an 87% acceptance rate, ranks second at $74,026, outpacing Michigan State University's $67,666. The data makes the case: program outcomes don't follow institutional prestige. [Learn how to evaluate programs beyond school prestige →](https://collegeazimuth.com/blog/how-to-evaluate-programs)
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Tennessee-Knoxville Soil Sciences graduates borrow $20,500 in student loans and face just a 4.3% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. That means loan payments consume a minimal share of post-grad income. For families considering parent loans, Tennessee-Knoxville again leads with a combined 11.6% family burden—rated 'Good'—making it the standout choice on both dimensions.
Highest program earnings: $88,563
Strong outcomes ($74,026) with 87% acceptance
4.3% payment burden | Excellent
11.6% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $88,563 | 24 | $20,500 | Excellent | $30,610 | Good | |
| #2 | $74,026 | 12 | $21,543 | Excellent | $19,500 | Good | |
| #3 | $67,666 | 22 | $23,250 | Excellent | $37,401 | Challenging | |
| #4 | $62,051 | 22 | $21,503 | Excellent | $14,012 | Manageable | |
| #5 | $57,671 | 14 | $20,000 | Excellent | $36,000 | Challenging | |
| #6 | $57,348 | 18 | $20,500 | Good | $38,513 | 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 May 2026 refresh for 2026 rankings, based on Department of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
