Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Environmental Science

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$86,672

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

87%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,762

Avg. Net Price

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The best colleges for environmental science not only prepare students for careers in a crucial field but also play a significant role in promoting social mobility. With a range of earnings, graduation rates, and affordability, these institutions attract diverse students eager to make an impact. For those considering their options, understanding how these schools can elevate their futures is essential.

At the heart of this ranking is a focus on outcomes that matter. The schools listed here excel in metrics like earnings potential, graduation rates, and manageable debt levels, which directly influence a graduate’s ability to thrive post-college. We’ve highlighted the top institutions that not only provide a solid education but also support students in achieving upward mobility.

Take Princeton University and Stanford University, for example. Princeton has an impressive graduation rate of 97% and a net price of $6,128, while Stanford’s graduation rate is 92% with a higher net price of $13,807. This trade-off between cost and graduation success illustrates a key consideration for students weighing their options on the path to a degree in environmental science.

Key Findings

Princeton University graduates earn an average of $110,066, making it a strong option for future earnings.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology boasts the highest average earnings of $143,372, but with a higher debt load of $14,768.

The average graduation rate across these top schools is 85%, indicating strong student support.

With an average net price of $14,860, the University of Chicago balances affordability with solid outcomes.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $86,672

Avg. graduation rate 87%

Avg. net price $22,762

Avg. median debt $17,050

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Physical Sciences

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Princeton University is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence. The small student body of 5,709 allows for close interactions with faculty and a tight-knit community, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a personalized education experience.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. With a graduation rate of 92% and a diverse student body of 7,554, it attracts motivated individuals eager to make an impact in various fields.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

MIT, with its 96% graduation rate and a focus on science and technology, is a dream for students passionate about innovation. With only 4,535 students, the institute fosters an environment where collaboration and creativity are at the forefront.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a remarkable graduation rate of 95%, the University of Chicago is a hub for ambitious students looking to challenge themselves academically. The school’s focus on research and intellectual rigor attracts those who thrive in a stimulating environment, and it shows in the impressive median earnings of $91,885 a decade after graduation.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

At Johns Hopkins University, a graduation rate of 94% reflects a supportive academic community that encourages success. Students here benefit from a rich tradition in research and a focus on real-world applications, leading to median earnings of $87,555 a decade after they receive their degrees.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania is known for its strong commitment to interdisciplinary studies, drawing in students eager to explore multiple fields. With a graduation rate of 97%, students are not only completing their degrees but are also stepping into lucrative careers, as evidenced by the impressive median earnings of $111,371 ten years post-graduation.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Rice University in Houston cultivates a supportive environment that fosters student success. The small student body of 4,776 allows for personalized attention and close connections with faculty, which many students find invaluable during their studies.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University has a storied history of academic excellence and a graduation rate of 97% that speaks to its supportive environment. Students are encouraged to think critically and innovate, which contributes to the impressive median earnings of $101,817 ten years after graduation, setting them up for success in their careers.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, located in the scenic town of Williamstown, enrolls just over 2,000 students but maintains a commitment to rigorous academics and a vibrant campus life. A 95% graduation rate reflects the dedication of both students and faculty in creating a focused and engaged learning environment.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#10

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University, situated in Providence, offers a unique curriculum that emphasizes student-driven learning and exploration. With a 96% graduation rate, students are encouraged to take ownership of their education, allowing for a diverse array of academic pursuits.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to empowering women. With a graduation rate of 91%, the college provides a nurturing and challenging atmosphere that encourages personal and professional growth among its 2,300 students.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#12

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Caltech, a small but mighty institution with just 987 students, has a graduation rate of 94%. It’s known for its rigorous focus on science and engineering, creating a unique environment where students can thrive academically.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#13

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Haverford, Pennsylvania, Haverford College fosters an intimate academic environment that emphasizes community and social responsibility. With a graduation rate of 90%, students benefit from a personalized education that encourages critical thinking and collaboration, preparing them for meaningful careers and lives.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#14

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College offers an intimate educational experience in Brunswick, Maine, with a student body of just 1,873. The college has a strong graduation rate of 95%, and its emphasis on a liberal arts education prepares students for a variety of career paths, fostering creative and critical thinking skills.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#15

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Pomona College in Claremont, California, cultivates an environment where students thrive academically and personally. The intimate setting, with just 1,666 students, encourages strong relationships between faculty and peers, fostering a supportive community dedicated to student success.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#16

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, located in Massachusetts, is known for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on intellectual engagement. With a graduation rate of 94%, students receive a personalized educational experience that nurtures creativity and leadership, making it an appealing choice for those who thrive in supportive settings.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#17

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College offers a unique and diverse educational experience in the heart of New York City, attracting over 16,000 students. While its graduation rate is 59%, the school presents a gateway for many students looking to achieve their academic goals in a vibrant urban setting, with median earnings of $63,163 after ten years indicating solid career prospects for graduates.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College is known for its tight-knit community and picturesque campus in Hanover, New Hampshire. With a graduation rate of 96%, students here benefit from a supportive environment that emphasizes both academic rigor and personal growth.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#19

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, offers a prestigious education with a strong emphasis on research and the arts. Maintaining a graduation rate of 96%, Yale nurtures a collaborative atmosphere where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and engage with their peers and professors alike.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University is situated in the heart of New York City, providing students with unparalleled opportunities and resources. With a graduation rate of 96%, the university cultivates a vibrant academic community that encourages exploration and innovation across diverse fields of study.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#21

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh is known for its rigorous academic programs, with a graduation rate of 93%. With a larger student body of 7,304, this university is particularly appealing to those interested in technology, arts, and business, providing a wealth of resources and networking opportunities that can shape future careers.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#22

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Waterville, Maine, Colby College offers a distinctive liberal arts education with a graduation rate of 89%. With an intimate community of 2,407 students, Colby emphasizes deep learning and interdisciplinary studies, attracting students who value a close-knit atmosphere and personalized attention from faculty.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College, located in Davidson, North Carolina, is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, as evidenced by a graduation rate of 91%. With a student body of 1,867, Davidson fosters a challenging yet supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop critical thinking skills.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#24

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

Located in historic Williamsburg, Virginia, William & Mary has a strong academic reputation, reflected in its impressive 90% graduation rate. With a smaller student body of about 7,055, students here can expect a close-knit community that fosters deep connections and a collaborative spirit.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#25

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University, located in Atlanta, GA, draws students looking for a top-notch education in a vibrant city. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $80,137 after ten years, Emory cultivates an educational experience that prepares students well for the workforce and for life.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the picturesque town of Lexington, Virginia, Washington and Lee University has a strong focus on the liberal arts and a commitment to undergraduate education. With a graduation rate of 94%, students here not only receive a well-rounded education but also benefit from a close-knit community that fosters personal growth and academic excellence.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#27

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University is a private liberal arts college that fosters a close-knit community among its 3,180 students in the picturesque town of Hamilton, NY. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $85,139 ten years after graduation, this institution emphasizes not only academic excellence but also the personal growth of its students.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#28

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, located in Pennsylvania, has an impressive 93% graduation rate that speaks volumes about its academic rigor and student support. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $80,257 a decade after leaving campus, indicating that the education they receive enables them to enter well-paying fields. The college prides itself on fostering a tight-knit community where intellectual curiosity and social responsibility go hand in hand.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#29

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the quaint town of Northfield, Minnesota, Carleton College is a liberal arts institution that fosters critical thinking and a well-rounded education. With a 90% graduation rate, it cultivates an environment where students can explore their interests while building a strong academic foundation and forming lifelong connections.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#30

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is a unique institution that welcomes around 995 students, focusing on engineering and technical disciplines. With a graduation rate of 57%, it might appeal to those who are self-driven and determined to succeed in specialized fields.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Smith College in Northampton, MA, creates a supportive environment that helps students succeed. The college is known for its commitment to women's education and offers a diverse range of programs that empower students to explore their interests deeply and meaningfully.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90%, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, clearly supports its students in achieving their academic goals. The strong median earnings of $69,498 ten years after graduation reflect the quality of education and the career opportunities available to graduates. The college's commitment to a liberal arts education fosters critical thinking and creates a vibrant community where students can thrive both academically and socially.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Iowa, Grinnell College offers a close-knit community with a student body of 1,729. Known for its rigorous academics, Grinnell has an impressive graduation rate of 88%, and its commitment to social justice and student-driven learning makes it a unique place for students eager to make a difference in the world.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#34

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, offers a 88% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success. Graduates earn a median income of $91,410 within ten years, showcasing the career readiness and professional connections that the college fosters. The vibrant campus life and extensive alumni network help students build relationships that can lead to exciting opportunities after graduation.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#35

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Harvey Mudd College, known for its strong emphasis on STEM fields, nurtures a close-knit community of just 921 students, creating an environment where collaboration flourishes. With a remarkable graduation rate of 93%, it’s clear that students receive the support they need to excel in challenging coursework and develop into leaders in their fields.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#36

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Middlebury College demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in the picturesque town of Middlebury, Vermont, this private nonprofit school not only fosters a close-knit community but also emphasizes academic excellence across a range of disciplines, particularly in the liberal arts and environmental studies.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#37

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College, located in Clinton, NY, is a small yet vibrant campus with just 2,030 students. The college boasts a remarkable 91% graduation rate and a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking and writing skills, preparing students for various career paths.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#38

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY · 3,233 students · Public

CUNY Medgar Evers College plays an important role in the community as a stepping stone for many students in Brooklyn, New York. With an acceptance rate of 86%, the college is welcoming to a diverse range of applicants, though its graduation rate of just 21% indicates challenges in student retention and success that the institution is actively working to address.

86% accepted 21% graduate $46,498 earnings

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

Missouri University of Science and Technology is a hub for students passionate about engineering, technology, and the sciences. With a graduation rate of 64%, this public institution in Rolla, Missouri, attracts a dedicated student body, drawn by its focus on hands-on learning and practical applications in STEM fields.

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#40

Colorado College

Colorado Springs, CO · 2,014 students · Private nonprofit

18% accepted 87% graduate $65,222 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#41

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY · 6,331 students · Private nonprofit

40% accepted 85% graduate $79,042 earnings

University's full profile

#42

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

Wesleyan University, situated in Middletown, Connecticut, is known for its commitment to academic freedom and a diverse range of disciplines. With a 92% graduation rate, students are encouraged to engage deeply in their studies and participate in a vibrant campus life that fosters both personal and intellectual growth.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#43

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#44

SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, NY · 3,869 students · Public

66% accepted 72% graduate $67,316 earnings

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

#46

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

#47

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

#48

Whitman College

Walla Walla, WA · 1,531 students · Private nonprofit

38% accepted 81% graduate $67,589 earnings

Whitman's full profile

#49

University of Mary Washington

Fredericksburg, VA · 3,566 students · Public

80% accepted 67% graduate $60,613 earnings

University's full profile

#50

Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr, PA · 1,359 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

Despite being similar in prestige, Princeton University and Stanford University show different strengths when it comes to social mobility metrics. Princeton has a lower net price of $6,128 compared to Stanford's $13,807, allowing students to graduate with less debt on average. This financial advantage can lead to better long-term financial stability for graduates.

For students scrolling through the rankings, it's crucial to weigh these metrics against personal priorities. Consider what factors are most important: Is the net price a primary concern, or do you prioritize a strong graduation rate? Take into account location, program fit, and campus culture as you make your decision, ensuring that the school aligns with your career aspirations and financial situation.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life hinges on these choices. A degree in environmental science can open doors, but the right institution will be one that not only nurtures your academic interests but also sets you up for success in the real world. Each decision shapes not just one student's future, but the future of families and communities.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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