Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Environmental Science

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

Schools Analyzed

$96,984

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

89%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$24,443

Avg. Net Price

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This list highlights colleges known for producing high-earning graduates in Environmental Science, particularly those focusing on Physical Sciences. With an average earning of $97,375, the schools here not only prepare students academically but also position them for lucrative careers in a growing field.

What sets these institutions apart are their strong graduation rates, manageable debt, and impressive post-graduation earnings. For example, graduates from the top schools have completion rates averaging 88%, while many face minimal debt loads, allowing them to pursue careers without the burden of significant financial stress. The list below reflects these outcomes, showcasing the schools that excel in preparing students for successful futures.

Consider Stanford University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Stanford graduates earn an average of $124,080, but their net price is $13,807, resulting in a debt of $12,000. In contrast, MIT graduates have higher earnings at $143,372, yet they face a higher net price of $20,111 and debt of $14,768. This contrast highlights the trade-offs families must consider as they assess their options.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $143,372.

Stanford University has a graduation rate of 92%, with only $12,000 in average debt.

California Institute of Technology's graduates earn $128,566, with a net price of $16,075.

The average graduate debt across these schools is $13,978.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $96,984

Avg. graduation rate 89%

Avg. net price $24,443

Avg. median debt $17,847

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings 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

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 →

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA

Graduation93%

Earnings$138,687

Net Price$35,924

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a mere 4% acceptance rate, Stanford University attracts some of the brightest minds across the globe. This private nonprofit institution in California not only fosters an environment of academic excellence but also boasts a remarkable 92% graduation rate, suggesting a supportive community for its 7,554 students.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, innovation and creativity are at the heart of the educational experience. Located in Cambridge, this prestigious institution boasts a 96% graduation rate among its 4,535 students, indicating a strong support system that helps students thrive in a challenging academic environment.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Harvey Mudd College, with its focus on science and engineering, cultivates a tight-knit community among its 921 students. The college enjoys a solid 93% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to helping students succeed academically while fostering collaboration and innovation.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is a vibrant hub for creativity and technology, with a diverse student body of 7,304. Known for its programs in computer science and the arts, CMU encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, making it a great fit for students who want to blend technology with creativity.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 94% graduation rate and a tight-knit community of just 987 students, California Institute of Technology offers an intimate learning environment that fosters deep engagement with cutting-edge research in science and engineering. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment stand at $128,566, which reflects the school's commitment to academic excellence and its strong ties to industry leaders in technology and innovation.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is known for its rigorous academic standards and beautiful campus in New Jersey, housing about 5,709 students. With a stunning 97% graduation rate, students here benefit from a highly supportive academic environment that prioritizes student success and personal growth.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania combines Ivy League prestige with a commitment to practical learning and research. With a remarkable 97% graduation rate, it attracts motivated students who excel academically and socially, creating a vibrant campus life that's rich in opportunities.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

At Harvard University, located in Cambridge, MA, students join a legacy of excellence with a 97% graduation rate and access to unmatched resources and networks. With a focus on rigorous academics and research opportunities, Harvard cultivates leaders who are prepared to make an impact in various fields, from business to the sciences.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

With a stunning location in the heart of New York City, Columbia University attracts students eager for both academic rigor and urban vibrancy. The 96% graduation rate signals a strong support system for students, while median earnings of $102,491 a decade after graduation suggest that a Columbia degree carries significant weight in the job market.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#10

Yale University

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

Yale University is renowned for its rich history and commitment to liberal arts education, offering a collaborative environment that encourages students to explore diverse fields. A 96% graduation rate reflects the university's dedication to student success, while median earnings of $100,533 ten years post-graduation highlight the strong career pathways available to graduates.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute prides itself on its strong emphasis on science and engineering, drawing students who are passionate about innovation and technology. While the graduation rate is lower at 83%, the median earnings of $102,051 at ten years out show that graduates can still achieve significant financial success in their careers.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#12

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the picturesque town of Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth College offers a unique blend of Ivy League academics and close-knit community life. The school boasts a consistent 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $97,434 after ten years, illustrating the value of a Dartmouth education in the professional world.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#13

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Villanova University reflects a strong commitment to student success. The university's tight-knit community fosters close relationships between students and faculty, which can lead to impactful mentorship opportunities and a supportive learning environment.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#14

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and vibrant intellectual community. A 95% graduation rate reflects the dedication of both students and faculty to achieving academic excellence, often leading students to pursue significant research opportunities and connections in various fields.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University is known for its open curriculum, allowing students to shape their own academic journey. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, students here often thrive in an environment that encourages exploration and intellectual independence.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University is recognized for its strong liberal arts education and a tight-knit campus community with only 1,881 students. A graduation rate of 94% highlights the university's commitment to ensuring that students receive the support they need to succeed throughout their college experience.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#17

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Rice University in Houston, TX, is a place where students are not just enrolled but thrive. The university's focus on undergraduate education in a vibrant city helps students form strong connections and foster intellectual growth.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, nestled in the scenic backdrop of Williamstown, MA, is known for its tight-knit community and commitment to liberal arts education. With a 95% graduation rate, it cultivates a strong academic environment where students engage deeply with their studies and with each other.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#19

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Baltimore, MD, Johns Hopkins University is synonymous with research and innovation. The 94% graduation rate reflects a commitment to academic success, while the university's emphasis on interdisciplinary studies prepares students for a dynamic and changing world.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Easton, Pennsylvania, Lafayette College is home to around 2,757 students who experience a tight-knit community focused on liberal arts education. With an impressive 88% graduation rate, students here benefit from a strong network of alumni and dedicated faculty, creating an environment that fosters both academic and personal growth.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#21

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy, situated in Vallejo, is a unique public institution catering to just 804 students, who engage in a distinctive maritime curriculum. The school’s 63% graduation rate reflects its commitment to hands-on learning, preparing students for careers in a specialized field that combines engineering, management, and environmental studies.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

#22

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Worcester, Massachusetts, the College of the Holy Cross enrolls about 3,106 students in a rich liberal arts tradition. With an 88% graduation rate, the college emphasizes intellectual curiosity and community engagement, helping students develop critical thinking skills and a strong ethical foundation.

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

#23

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College is a vibrant, all-women's institution in Wellesley, Massachusetts, with a tight-knit community of around 2,300 students. With a graduation rate of 91%, students here not only excel academically but also find themselves well-prepared for the workforce, leading to a median earning of $84,803 at ten years post-graduation.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#24

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

The University of California-Berkeley is a powerhouse in higher education, attracting over 33,000 students who are eager to learn and innovate. With a graduation rate of 93%, it has a reputation for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life that encourages diverse perspectives and collaborative learning.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, has a strong focus on research and innovation, making it an excellent choice for students looking to make an impact in their fields. With a graduation rate of 87%, many students find themselves well-prepared for their careers upon graduation.

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Hamilton, New York, Colgate University cultivates a strong liberal arts education for approximately 3,180 students. The school boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 91%, paired with a median earning of $85,139 ten years after graduation, indicating that graduates are well-equipped to enter the job market successfully.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#27

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Known for its entrepreneurial spirit, Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, is home to about 2,728 students who are passionate about business. The school achieves an impressive 93% graduation rate, and its graduates earn a median income of $123,938 ten years after finishing their degrees, reflecting the strong career outcomes that come from a Babson education.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#28

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, Bentley University offers a forward-thinking business education to around 4,474 students. The university has an 88% graduation rate, and its graduates earn a median salary of $120,959 after ten years, showcasing the potential for strong financial returns in the business sector.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

#29

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, is known for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on liberal arts education. With a graduation rate of 95% and a mere 7% acceptance rate, it cultivates a highly motivated student community. Graduates earn a median salary of $82,735 ten years after completing their studies, reflecting the quality of education and networking opportunities available.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#30

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

MCPHS University in Boston is a hub for students passionate about health sciences. With a diverse student body of 3,451, it has a welcoming 85% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many aspiring healthcare professionals. The school’s focus on practical experience positions graduates well for the job market, leading to a median earning of $125,557 a decade after graduation.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers a specialized education for those aiming to excel in pharmacy and health-related fields. With 481 students, the college maintains a 53% acceptance rate and a graduation rate of 68%, which reflects its commitment to student success. Graduates are well-prepared for their careers, enjoying a median income of $131,426 ten years after earning their degree.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

#32

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Haverford, Pennsylvania, this small liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and a close-knit community of just 1,430 students. With a graduation rate of 90%, students benefit from a supportive environment that emphasizes collaboration and critical thinking.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#33

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College, nestled in North Carolina, offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a strong sense of community. The college has an impressive graduation rate of 91%, indicating a supportive academic environment where students thrive and achieve their goals.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#34

University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 337 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, students find a focused academic environment dedicated to healthcare innovation. With a smaller student population of 337 and a 90% acceptance rate, it fosters a close-knit community that supports personalized education in health sciences. Graduates can expect a strong return on investment, with median earnings hitting $137,047 at ten years post-graduation.

90% accepted 69% graduate $137,047 earnings

University's full profile

#35

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, nestled in the scenic town of Waterville, Maine, is known for its commitment to liberal arts education and strong community values. With a student population of 2,407, Colby emphasizes a balance of academic rigor and personal development, which is evident in its 89% graduation rate. The college fosters a vibrant campus life, encouraging students to engage deeply in both their studies and extracurricular activities.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · 17,597 students · Public

The University of Virginia in Charlottesville serves a vibrant community of 17,597 students, known for its rigorous academic programs and rich history. With a remarkable 95% graduation rate, students are supported by a robust network of resources and a culture that encourages excellence.

17% accepted 95% graduate $86,863 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Emory University provides a blend of rigorous academics and diverse cultural experiences. With a robust enrollment of 7,298 students, Emory nurtures a collaborative learning environment, as reflected by its strong 91% graduation rate. The university's emphasis on research and community engagement prepares students for impactful careers in various fields.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

With a median earning of $82,957 after ten years, Missouri University of Science and Technology offers a solid return on investment for motivated students. Known for its rigorous programs in engineering and technology, the school enrolls 5,521 students who thrive in a collaborative learning environment focused on real-world applications.

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#39

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, located in Pennsylvania, is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. With a focused student body of 1,613, the college cultivates an intimate learning environment that fosters critical thinking and collaboration, as highlighted by its 93% graduation rate. The community here values intellectual curiosity and inclusivity, making it a great fit for driven students seeking a rich educational experience.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#40

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, achieving a remarkable 94% graduation rate. With a small student body of just 1,911, it offers a close-knit community where students can engage deeply with their studies and peers, fostering lasting connections and intellectual growth.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#41

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College attracts students looking for a rigorous liberal arts education in a beautiful setting. With a graduation rate of 93%, the college emphasizes academic rigor and personal growth, and its small size of 1,666 allows for individual attention from faculty and a tight-knit community experience.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#42

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

The University of California-San Diego sits in the scenic coastal city of La Jolla, attracting students with its vibrant campus life and strong emphasis on research. It boasts an impressive graduation rate of 87%, reflecting its commitment to helping students succeed academically and build meaningful careers.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

With a unique focus on engineering and innovation, Franklin W Olin College of Engineering is a small but impactful institution. Its student body of just 377 fosters a collaborative environment where students can thrive in hands-on projects and interdisciplinary learning. The impressive 94% graduation rate reflects a commitment to student success and a supportive academic culture.

25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#44

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY · 6,331 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Rochester is an appealing option for students who value a blend of rigorous academics and research opportunities. With a graduation rate of 85%, students here are well-prepared to enter the workforce, and many have a chance to engage in meaningful research alongside faculty, which can significantly enhance their educational experience.

40% accepted 85% graduate $79,042 earnings

University's full profile

#45

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the charming town of Clinton, NY, Hamilton College attracts students who thrive in a personalized learning environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, the college emphasizes close faculty-student collaboration, which fosters deep academic engagement and prepares students for successful careers across diverse fields.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#46

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

With a strong focus on engineering and applied sciences, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology attracts students who are eager to dive into technical fields. The school’s commitment to hands-on learning and research is reflected in its solid median earnings of $76,489 a decade after graduation, indicating that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College is known for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum and tight-knit community, making it a great fit for students who value intellectual exploration. With a graduation rate of 90%, this private institution equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills that help them achieve median earnings of $75,525 within ten years of graduating, demonstrating the value of its degree in the job market.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#48

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#49

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#50

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

When comparing Stanford University and Harvey Mudd College, we see a notable difference in their financial outlooks despite similar graduation rates. Stanford offers graduates $124,080 in earnings, with a lower average debt of $12,000 compared to Harvey Mudd's $138,687 earnings and $25,000 debt. This suggests that while Harvey Mudd graduates earn more, the financial burden is significantly heavier.

For students and families sifting through this list of 50 colleges, it's crucial to weigh the data against personal priorities. Consider factors like location, program fit, and campus culture alongside the financial metrics. If a school has a higher earning potential but also a steeper price tag and debt load, think about whether the investment aligns with your career goals and lifestyle preferences.

Ultimately, the data paints a clear picture: the path from college to a stable life is influenced not just by the degree earned but also by the financial decisions made along the way. One family's choice to attend a school with lower debt might lead to a more secure future, highlighting the importance of informed decision-making in this critical time.

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]

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

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

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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