2026 Best Colleges for Earth Science

We rigorously analyzed a host of variables to determine what colleges and universities offer the best Earth Science programs in America. The list includes 434 programs and you can sort by average salary, debt, acceptance rate and more to hone in on the the best programs for you.

If you’re still wondering whether Earth Science is the right field of study for you, check out our guide to majoring in Earth Science: what you can do with the major, how much you’ll make, and more.

For the purposes of these rankings we prioritized earnings after graduation 6 years and 10 years out for students that majored in Earth Science. Please note that earnings are one metric of success that can be used to judge a Earth Science program, but are by no means the best or only option. However, because this variable is provided by the vast majority of universities offering Earth Science we used it as the primary method or ordering the best universities for Earth Science.

By scrolling all the way through the list you’ll find every college or university that offers a Earth Science in America.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Universities offering Earth Science Majors and Degrees

What is the best university for majoring in Earth Science?

Lehigh University is the best university for majoring in Earth Science based on earnings data. On average, graduates from Lehigh University earned an average of $61,020 2 years after graduating.

What is the cheapest university for majoring in Earth Science?

Brigham Young University-Idaho is the cheapest university for majoring in Earth Science based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $3,830 to attend Brigham Young University-Idaho.

What is the most expensive university for majoring in Earth Science?

Columbia University in the City of New York is the most expensive university for majoring in Earth Science based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $53,000 to attend Columbia University in the City of New York.