Neurobiology and Neurosciences at Carthage College

The $29,454 starting salary from Carthage's neuroscience program falls short of both Wisconsin's median ($30,570) and the national benchmark ($31,687), positioning graduates in the 40th percentile statewide. That's a concerning start, particularly when you consider that UW-Madison neuroscience graduates begin at $31,687—a $2,200 advantage that compounds over time. The debt load of $27,000 exceeds both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.92 that will require careful budgeting in those crucial first years.

The silver lining here is substantial earnings growth—graduates see a 69% jump to nearly $50,000 by year four, which suggests many are successfully entering graduate programs, research positions, or clinical roles that leverage their degree. However, this trajectory appears standard for neuroscience majors nationwide, not unique to Carthage. The program ranks in just the 38th percentile nationally for earnings, meaning most comparable programs deliver better financial outcomes.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year, but parents should understand the fundamental challenge: this is an expensive degree from a school with an 84% admission rate, competing against flagship research universities with more robust laboratory infrastructure and industry connections. If your child is considering Carthage specifically for fit or merit aid that substantially reduces that $27,000 debt figure, it could work—otherwise, Wisconsin's public universities offer stronger value in this field.