Natural Sciences at Bossier Parish Community College

The limited data here (fewer than 30 graduates tracked) makes firm conclusions difficult, but the pattern suggests graduates face a challenging financial equation. Starting earnings of $25,713 barely crack $12 per hour in full-time terms, paired with debt above $21,000—meaning graduates owe nearly a year's salary. While this program performs at the 60th percentile among Louisiana natural sciences associate degrees, that's misleading context since Bossier Parish appears to be the only school in the state with trackable data for this specific program.

The real concern is how this compares nationally: 5th percentile in both earnings and debt load. Typical natural sciences associate programs nationwide see students graduate with half this debt ($10,598 median) while earning slightly more. The 9% earnings bump to $28,078 by year four helps, but doesn't fundamentally change the debt burden. Half of students here receive Pell grants, meaning many families have limited financial cushion to absorb this kind of debt-to-earnings ratio.

For parents considering this path, understand that an associate degree in natural sciences often serves as a stepping stone to a four-year program rather than a terminal credential. If your child plans to transfer and complete a bachelor's degree, factor in the total debt accumulated. If they intend to enter the workforce directly, these earnings levels will make that debt repayment challenging without additional credentials or career development.