Biology at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Abraham Baldwin's biology program starts graduates at just $25,869—roughly 20% below Georgia's typical biology graduate and in the bottom fifth nationally. However, that first-year figure tells only part of the story. By year four, earnings jump to $34,782, representing 35% growth that outpaces what many biology programs deliver. While this still trails Georgia's median by about $7,000 annually, the trajectory suggests graduates are finding their footing in healthcare, research, or graduate school pathways where biology degrees often serve as stepping stones rather than terminal credentials.
The $23,500 debt load is actually slightly below both state and national norms, which matters when starting salaries are this compressed. At 91% of first-year earnings, the debt burden is manageable—graduates should be able to make progress on loans while pursuing additional training or certifications that biology careers often require. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) means these numbers represent real outcomes, not statistical noise.
For families considering this program, understand that you're looking at below-average initial earnings with solid growth potential. If your student plans to pursue medical, veterinary, or graduate school—common paths for biology majors—this affordable entry point makes sense. For those expecting immediate post-graduation income, Georgia College or Middle Georgia State deliver $6,000-9,000 more right out of the gate.
Where Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College graduates earn $26k, placing them in the 16th percentile of all biology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (49 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | $25,869 | $34,782 | $23,500 | 0.91 |
| Middle Georgia State University | $35,281 | — | $29,220 | 0.83 |
| Georgia College & State University | $32,550 | $39,150 | $25,000 | 0.77 |
| Clayton State University | $31,665 | $47,292 | $31,500 | 0.99 |
| Kennesaw State University | $31,530 | $48,140 | $26,205 | 0.83 |
| University of North Georgia | $31,007 | $48,562 | $21,500 | 0.69 |
| National Median | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Other Biology Programs in Georgia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Georgia State University Macon | $4,432 | $35,281 | $29,220 |
| Georgia College & State University Milledgeville | $8,998 | $32,550 | $25,000 |
| Clayton State University Morrow | $5,068 | $31,665 | $31,500 |
| Kennesaw State University Kennesaw | $5,786 | $31,530 | $26,205 |
| University of North Georgia Dahlonega | $5,009 | $31,007 | $21,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, approximately 34% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 45 graduates with reported earnings and 49 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.