Biology at California Lutheran University

The $79,000 earnings jump between years one and four tells the real story here—California Lutheran biology grads start slow but accelerate quickly, suggesting many are completing additional training or breaking into better positions after that initial post-grad year. While first-year earnings of $32,894 land in the 40th percentile for California biology programs, that four-year mark of $59,007 puts graduates well ahead of the state median and demonstrates this isn't a dead-end degree path.

The $24,962 debt load is reasonable and nearly identical to national norms, creating a manageable 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio even in that difficult first year. Compare this trajectory to University of San Diego's $54,223 starting salary—yes, they launch higher, but Cal Lutheran's moderate admission standards (89% acceptance rate) mean more students actually get through the door. For families worried about pre-med or graduate school prerequisites while maintaining financial stability, this represents a viable foundation.

The caveat: that 40th percentile California ranking matters if your student plans to stay in-state and jump straight into the workforce. But for families viewing this biology degree as a stepping stone—whether to healthcare careers, research positions, or graduate programs—the aggressive earnings growth suggests Cal Lutheran prepares students to capitalize on opportunities that emerge after graduation.