Analysis
Similar neurobiology programs in Massachusetts typically produce first-year earnings around $39,500, placing this field firmly in the middle of the pack nationally—above the median but well below what graduates from MIT or Harvard command. The estimated debt of roughly $25,000 creates a manageable 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe less than eight months of their first year's salary. That's considerably better than many bachelor's programs, though it's worth noting these figures represent what peer programs across Massachusetts typically see, not specific outcomes from Simon's Rock graduates.
The challenge lies in what neuroscience bachelor's holders actually do after graduation. This field often serves as a stepping stone to medical school, PhD programs, or other advanced degrees rather than a direct path to employment. If your child plans to continue their education immediately, that $39,500 figure becomes less relevant—and the debt picture changes dramatically depending on what comes next. The relatively high admission rate and modest Pell grant percentage suggest Simon's Rock may offer a different academic environment than the state's neuroscience powerhouses, which could matter for graduate school admissions.
Given the small program size that triggered data suppression, connect with current students or recent graduates directly to understand actual career paths. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable financial risk if your child enters the workforce right away, but neuroscience careers typically require credentials beyond a bachelor's degree.
Where Bard College at Simon's Rock Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all neurobiology and neurosciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Neurobiology and Neurosciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $66,594 | $39,468* | — | $24,938* | — | |
| $60,156 | $48,125* | — | —* | — | |
| $59,076 | $46,993* | — | —* | — | |
| $64,320 | $44,687* | — | $8,300* | 0.19 | |
| $63,141 | $43,894* | $59,073 | $25,000* | 0.57 | |
| $62,080 | $39,842* | $52,713 | $27,000* | 0.68 | |
| National Median | — | $31,687* | — | $22,936* | 0.72 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with neurobiology and neurosciences graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Biological Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
Bioinformatics Scientists
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Geneticists
Biologists
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 Bard College at Simon's Rock, approximately 23% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 10 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.