Biology at Albany State University

Albany State University's biology program serves a predominantly low-income student population and delivers modest but steadily improving outcomes. Starting at $30,588, graduates earn slightly below the national median but outpace most Georgia biology programs—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. More encouraging is the 30% earnings jump by year four to nearly $40,000, suggesting graduates find their footing after an initial period in entry-level positions. The debt load of $30,745 is remarkably low compared to national norms (5th percentile), creating a manageable 1:1 debt-to-earnings ratio that many graduates can realistically handle.

The tradeoff here is clear: your child won't immediately out-earn peers from Georgia's higher-ranked programs, but they also won't carry the debt burden that often accompanies biology degrees elsewhere. For families concerned about affordability—and with 65% of students receiving Pell grants, most are—this program provides access to a science degree without crushing financial risk. The earnings trajectory matters too: that $9,000 increase over four years suggests the degree opens doors to better positions once graduates gain experience.

If your child needs a biology degree at an affordable price point and you're realistic about the early career earnings, this program delivers reasonable value. It won't match Middle Georgia State's outcomes, but the combination of low debt and steady income growth makes it a viable path for students who might otherwise forgo a science education entirely.