Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Environmental Science

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

Schools Analyzed

$69,407

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

68%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,411

Avg. Net Price

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Finding the right college for pursuing Environmental Science can be a daunting task, especially when balancing quality education with affordability. The schools on this list share a commitment to providing accessible programs in the physical sciences, making them attractive options for students passionate about the environment and sustainability. For many families, the choice may hinge on the financial implications, with an average earnings potential of $70,799 for graduates in this field.

What sets the top schools apart in this ranking is not just their affordability but also their outcomes. Key metrics like graduation rates, average debt, and post-graduation earnings reveal how well these institutions prepare students for successful careers. While the list below highlights schools with strong financial profiles, it's important to recognize the variation in outcomes among them, such as the stark contrast between earnings and graduation rates that can impact long-term success.

For instance, Princeton University stands out with an impressive 97% graduation rate and average earnings of $110,066, but it also brings a higher net price of $6,128. On the other hand, CUNY Hunter College offers a much lower net price of $2,984 but has a graduation rate of only 59% and significantly lower earnings potential at $63,163. This contrast underscores the importance of considering both the educational and financial aspects when choosing a college.

Key Findings

Princeton University graduates earn an average of $110,066, the highest on this list.

CUNY Hunter College has the lowest net price at $2,984 but a graduation rate of just 59%.

Berea College graduates have an average debt of $3,591, the lowest among these schools.

On average, these colleges have a graduation rate of 70%, highlighting a solid completion trend.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $69,407

Avg. graduation rate 68%

Avg. net price $14,411

Avg. median debt $18,338

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability 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 →

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Graduation59%

Earnings$63,163

Net Price$2,984

View full profile →

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY

Graduation21%

Earnings$46,498

Net Price$5,718

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is a name synonymous with academic excellence. With a graduation rate of 97%, it's clear that students not only enroll but thrive, benefiting from a supportive environment that fosters success.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY Hunter College offers a vibrant urban experience for students. With a diverse student body of over 16,000, it creates an inclusive atmosphere where many can find their place and succeed, despite a graduation rate of 59% that suggests challenges for some.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY · 3,233 students · Public

CUNY Medgar Evers College, located in Brooklyn, caters to a diverse student population, with a particular focus on community engagement and support. However, the college faces challenges, as evidenced by its graduation rate of only 21%, which may concern students looking for a more traditional college experience.

86% accepted 21% graduate $46,498 earnings

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College is distinctive for its commitment to providing a tuition-free education to students from low-income backgrounds. With an acceptance rate of 19%, it attracts individuals who are eager to learn and willing to engage in a work-study program that supports their education.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

Nestled in Socorro, New Mexico, the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is particularly appealing for students interested in science, engineering, and technology. With a graduation rate of 57%, it offers a focused education for a smaller community of 995 students. While the acceptance rate of 44% means a moderate level of selectivity, students here benefit from a supportive atmosphere dedicated to hands-on learning and research.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is known for its storied academic reputation and vibrant campus life in sunny California. With a graduation rate of 92%, students here benefit from top-notch faculty and resources that help them thrive. The small acceptance rate of 4% highlights the competitive nature of admissions, but those who do enroll are part of an engaging and intellectually stimulating community.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

With 9,657 students, the College of Staten Island CUNY offers an accessible education in a vibrant New York City environment. The 92% acceptance rate means many students can explore their academic passions without the stress of highly selective admissions. The school's graduation rate of 33% might raise eyebrows, but many students benefit from supportive programs aimed at helping them succeed in a diverse community.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a close-knit community in Houston, Texas. With an impressive graduation rate of 95%, it's clear that students here thrive in an environment that fosters collaboration and support. The 8% acceptance rate reflects its competitiveness, but that also means students are surrounded by peers who are equally passionate about their studies and future careers.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and vibrant intellectual community, drawing students who are passionate about learning and research. With a remarkable 95% graduation rate, it cultivates an environment where students are encouraged to explore ideas deeply and critically.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. With a selective 7% acceptance rate and a 95% graduation rate, it attracts motivated students who thrive in an academically rigorous environment.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#11

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN · 936 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of just 936 students, the University of Minnesota-Morris offers a personalized college experience in the welcoming town of Morris. The campus is known for its commitment to sustainability and outdoor education, making it a great fit for students who value environmental stewardship alongside their studies.

75% accepted 62% graduate $50,919 earnings

University's full profile

#12

University of the Virgin Islands

Charlotte Amalie, VI · 1,518 students · Public

Located in the scenic Charlotte Amalie, the University of the Virgin Islands provides a unique educational environment infused with Caribbean culture. With a 99% acceptance rate, it welcomes a diverse student body, making it an attractive option for those looking for an inclusive atmosphere.

99% accepted 28% graduate $38,681 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of North Carolina Asheville

Asheville, NC · 2,910 students · Public

In the heart of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, the University of North Carolina Asheville cultivates a unique environment for its 2,910 students. With its 55% graduation rate, the university fosters a supportive community, making it a great fit for students who thrive in a more intimate, engaging setting.

92% accepted 55% graduate $44,030 earnings

University's full profile

#14

University of New Orleans

New Orleans, LA · 4,638 students · Public

The University of New Orleans sits right by the vibrant culture of the city, offering a diverse environment for its 4,638 students. Despite a lower graduation rate of 40%, the university is known for its strong community support, which can help students navigate their academic journeys more effectively.

74% accepted 40% graduate $47,872 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, a private nonprofit institution, has an impressive 95% graduation rate, indicating a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings of $88,665 at ten years post-graduation reflect the college's focus on providing a quality liberal arts education, which prepares students for a variety of successful career paths, from finance to education.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#16

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

With a strikingly low acceptance rate of just 3%, California Institute of Technology attracts some of the brightest minds eager to delve into the sciences and engineering. Nestled in Pasadena, this small but mighty institution has a tight-knit community of approximately 987 students, where collaboration and innovation thrive in an environment that prioritizes research and academic rigor.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#17

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT is synonymous with cutting-edge technology and a spirit of entrepreneurship. With a larger student body of 4,535, this school fosters a vibrant community where collaboration leads to real-world impact, making it a compelling choice for those passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#18

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Colby College in Waterville, ME, is a strong contender for students seeking a supportive academic environment. The school has a robust focus on liberal arts, encouraging critical thinking and collaboration among its 2,407 students, which can lead to lasting connections and impactful learning experiences.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College in North Carolina is known for its strong academic reputation and a graduation rate of 91%, which is impressive given its selective acceptance rate of just 13%. With a focus on developing critical thinkers, the college nurtures a tight-knit community among its 1,867 students, fostering meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#20

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

In Baltimore, Johns Hopkins University is renowned for its emphasis on research and public service, drawing students who are committed to making a difference. With a student body of 5,693 and a 94% graduation rate, this private nonprofit institution cultivates an intellectually stimulating atmosphere that prepares students for impactful careers in various fields.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Lake Superior State University

Sault Ste Marie, MI · 1,325 students · Public

Located in Sault Ste Marie, Lake Superior State University is small in size, with just 1,325 students, but it offers a supportive environment that can feel like home. The university has a focus on practical education, and its graduates earn a median income of $49,045 ten years after enrollment, which illustrates the real-world value of degrees here.

54% graduate $49,045 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Harvard University is a place where students are not just accepted but encouraged to excel. The vibrant campus in Cambridge, MA, is home to over 7,600 students, and the support available helps them achieve impressive milestones both academically and professionally.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#23

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 87%, the University of California-San Diego is a strong contender for students looking for a solid education in a vibrant coastal setting. The median earnings of $84,943 at ten years post-graduation indicate that alumni are well-prepared for successful careers, making this university an appealing choice for those focused on future earnings potential.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College, with its 1,729 students, is known for a strong commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. The impressive 88% graduation rate highlights the college's effective programs that support student success and engagement, making it a great choice for those who value community and personal growth alongside their studies.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#25

Le Moyne-Owen College

Memphis, TN · 581 students · Private nonprofit

Le Moyne-Owen College in Memphis, TN, welcomes students with an acceptance rate of 99%, making it highly accessible. However, it faces a significant challenge, with only 26% of students graduating. This college can be a home for those seeking community support, particularly for first-generation college students or those who may need more personalized guidance throughout their education.

99% accepted 26% graduate $35,594 earnings

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

The University of California-Berkeley earns attention with an impressive 93% graduation rate, making it a prime choice for students determined to succeed. The median earnings of $92,446 ten years after graduation demonstrate the university's effectiveness in preparing students for high-paying jobs, particularly in fields like technology and business.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, a small liberal arts school with just 1,666 students, cultivates an intimate academic atmosphere where individualized attention is the norm. With a graduation rate of 93%, it’s clear that students benefit from robust support systems, fostering both personal growth and academic success in a close-knit community.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#28

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

Missouri University of Science and Technology, located in Rolla, is a hub for aspiring engineers and scientists, with a particular emphasis on hands-on learning. It has a larger student body of 5,521 and boasts a respectable graduation rate of 64%, reflecting its commitment to student success in challenging fields.

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#29

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary in Williamsburg is known for its rigorous academic environment and vibrant campus life, catering to students who are serious about their education. With a 90% graduation rate, it's clear that students here are well-supported and driven to succeed, often finding their place in competitive job markets after graduation.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#30

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

Virginia Military Institute in Lexington is known for its rigorous academic environment and unique military structure, which cultivates leadership skills and discipline among its students. This is a place where those seeking a challenge and a close-knit community can thrive, preparing them for careers in various fields, from the military to engineering and beyond.

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#31

Chadron State College

Chadron, NE · 1,540 students · Public

Chadron State College is a small public institution in Nebraska with around 1,540 students, creating an intimate and supportive learning environment. Graduating only 44% of its students may raise some eyebrows, but those who do complete their degrees earn a median income of $47,002 a decade after graduation, suggesting that their education pays off for those who stick with it.

44% graduate $47,002 earnings

Chadron's full profile

#32

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Hilo, HI · 2,160 students · Public

The University of Hawaii at Hilo invites students to experience a unique blend of education and natural beauty in a vibrant island setting. With an acceptance rate of 61% and a diverse student body of 2,160, this public university stands as an accessible option for those looking to embrace both academic growth and the rich cultural landscape of Hawaii.

61% accepted 45% graduate $47,856 earnings

University's full profile

#33

University of Puerto Rico-Humacao

Humacao, PR · 2,529 students · Public

Nestled along the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, the University of Puerto Rico-Humacao serves 2,529 students, providing a welcoming environment with a 50% graduation rate. This institution is particularly appealing for those who value a close-knit community and a culturally rich atmosphere, which fosters meaningful connections among students and faculty alike.

55% accepted 50% graduate $29,521 earnings

University's full profile

#34

Chicago State University

Chicago, IL · 1,384 students · Public

43% accepted 16% graduate $42,778 earnings

Chicago's full profile

#35

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA · 31,942 students · Public

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus boasts a diverse student body of nearly 32,000 and an 84% graduation rate, making it a solid option for students looking for a large public university experience. Median earnings of $78,466 ten years after graduation suggest that graduates find rewarding careers, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors, common in the Seattle area.

39% accepted 84% graduate $78,466 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Randolph College

Lynchburg, VA · 658 students · Private nonprofit

Randolph College, nestled in Lynchburg, Virginia, has a unique charm, especially for students seeking a more intimate educational experience with just 658 peers. The college has a graduation rate of only 49%, which might raise some eyebrows, but it also reflects the institution's commitment to providing a nurturing environment for students who may need extra support. With median earnings of $53,409 a decade after graduation, the college offers solid career prospects for those who complete their degrees.

94% accepted 49% graduate $53,409 earnings

Randolph's full profile

#37

William Jewell College

Liberty, MO · 924 students · Private nonprofit

William Jewell College, with a smaller community of 924 students, places a strong emphasis on personalized education, resulting in a graduation rate of 64%. This college is particularly appealing for students looking for a close-knit campus experience in Liberty, Missouri.

38% accepted 64% graduate $59,268 earnings

William's full profile

#38

University of Missouri-Kansas City

Kansas City, MO · 6,817 students · Public

Located in Kansas City, MO, the University of Missouri-Kansas City is a diverse public institution attended by 6,817 students. With a welcoming acceptance rate of 72%, it provides a variety of programs and resources for those looking to engage in a vibrant urban setting, making it a great choice for students who thrive in lively environments.

72% accepted 56% graduate $59,637 earnings

University's full profile

#39

SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, NY · 3,869 students · Public

SUNY College at Geneseo attracts students with a strong academic reputation, underscored by a graduation rate of 72%. With 3,869 students, this college provides a vibrant campus experience in a picturesque setting. The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its median earnings of $67,316 after ten years, which is among the highest for public colleges.

66% accepted 72% graduate $67,316 earnings

Rust College

Holly Springs, MS · 467 students · Private nonprofit

49% accepted 17% graduate $32,275 earnings

Xavier University of Louisiana

New Orleans, LA · 2,628 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 49% graduate $52,184 earnings

Xavier's full profile

#42

Monmouth College

Monmouth, IL · 702 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 62% graduate $51,110 earnings

Monmouth's full profile

#43

Kalamazoo College

Kalamazoo, MI · 1,149 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 79% graduate $65,590 earnings

Kalamazoo's full profile

#44

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso, IN · 2,083 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 69% graduate $63,191 earnings

Valparaiso's full profile

#45

Fort Lewis College

Durango, CO · 3,079 students · Public

77% accepted 39% graduate $46,349 earnings

University of California-Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA · 23,113 students · Public

With over 23,000 students, UC Santa Barbara is a vibrant place that balances rigorous academics with a stunning coastal location. The school’s 84% graduation rate speaks to its supportive environment, helping students thrive in their studies while enjoying the beauty of Southern California.

33% accepted 84% graduate $74,915 earnings

University's full profile

#47

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Nestled in the heart of New York City, Columbia University offers an elite educational experience for its 8,973 students. With an impressive graduation rate of 96%, students not only graduate but also tend to earn a median income of $102,491 a decade later, reflecting the value of a degree from this prestigious institution.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#48

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Huntsville, AL · 6,591 students · Public

69% accepted 63% graduate $61,767 earnings

University's full profile

#49

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

#50

Coe College

Cedar Rapids, IA · 1,164 students · Private nonprofit

64% accepted 62% graduate $57,125 earnings

When we look closely at the data, a notable pattern emerges. Princeton University, while more expensive, offers graduates a significant earning advantage at $110,066 compared to CUNY Medgar Evers College's $46,498. However, Medgar Evers has a lower net price of $5,718, which might appeal to students looking for immediate financial relief but comes with a much lower graduation rate of only 21%.

As you sift through these 50 schools, think about what matters most for you. Consider location, program fit, and campus culture alongside these financial metrics. Are you willing to invest more for a higher graduation rate and long-term earnings potential, or do you prioritize minimizing debt? Create a list of your own priorities to help narrow down your choices based on this data.

The stakes in this decision are high. Choosing a college can shape a family's financial future and impact career stability. The differences in earnings and graduation rates illustrate how critical it is to assess not just the cost but also the value offered by these institutions. With careful consideration, families can find a path that balances education quality with affordability, leading to a more secure life after college.

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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