Analysis
Arizona State University's Digital Immersion biology program delivers solid value with notably manageable debt levels. With a median debt of $21,250—well below the national average of $25,000 for biology programs—students graduate with relatively light financial burdens. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 means graduates can reasonably expect to pay off their loans within about 15 months of their starting salary.
The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story. While the first-year median of $34,206 matches both Arizona's state median and ASU's campus-based program, the 35% earnings growth to $46,169 by year four is impressive for biology graduates. This performance puts the program in the 60th percentile among Arizona biology programs and 62nd percentile nationally—respectable positioning that suggests graduates are competitive in the job market.
For parents concerned about return on investment, this program offers a compelling package: below-average debt with above-average earnings potential. The digital format provides flexibility without sacrificing outcomes, as evidenced by earnings that match ASU's traditional campus program. While University of Arizona edges out slightly higher first-year earnings, ASU Digital's lower debt burden may ultimately provide better net value. This is a financially sensible choice for students interested in biology, particularly those who value flexibility and want to minimize educational debt.
Where Arizona State University Digital Immersion Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Arizona State University Digital Immersion 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University Digital Immersion | $34,206 | $46,169 | +35% |
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion | $34,206 | $46,169 | +35% |
| Northern Arizona University | $34,940 | $45,255 | +30% |
| University of Arizona | $37,020 | $44,256 | +20% |
| Grand Canyon University | $30,775 | $43,156 | +40% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | $34,206 | $46,169 | $21,250 | 0.62 | |
| $13,626 | $37,020 | $44,256 | $23,500 | 0.63 | |
| $12,652 | $34,940 | $45,255 | $20,500 | 0.59 | |
| $12,051 | $34,206 | $46,169 | $21,250 | 0.62 | |
| $17,450 | $30,775 | $43,156 | $26,921 | 0.87 | |
| 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 Arizona State University Digital Immersion, approximately 38% 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 836 graduates with reported earnings and 1009 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.