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
Earnings Distribution
How Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | $25,869 | $34,782 | +34% |
| Morehouse College | $19,679 | $71,611 | +264% |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | $19,167 | $54,251 | +183% |
| Augusta University | $28,978 | $49,385 | +70% |
| Gordon State College | $29,542 | $49,054 | +66% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (49 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,195 | $25,869 | $34,782 | $23,500 | 0.91 | |
| $4,432 | $35,281 | — | $29,220 | 0.83 | |
| $8,998 | $32,550 | $39,150 | $25,000 | 0.77 | |
| $5,068 | $31,665 | $47,292 | $31,500 | 0.99 | |
| $5,786 | $31,530 | $48,140 | $26,205 | 0.83 | |
| $5,009 | $31,007 | $48,562 | $21,500 | 0.69 | |
| National Median | — | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Forensic Science Technicians
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Biological Technicians
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture Technicians
Food Science Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
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.