Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences at Cedarville University

Peer programs in cellular biology nationally suggest first-year earnings around $35,000—a modest starting point for a field where many graduates ultimately pursue advanced degrees. With estimated debt of $17,500, roughly half the first-year salary, the financial foundation appears manageable compared to many science programs. However, these figures come from similar programs nationwide since Cedarville's graduate numbers are too small for the DOE to report specific outcomes.

The real question is whether this bachelor's serves as a stepping stone or endpoint. Cellular biology degrees often function as pre-med or pre-graduate school credentials, where the true career payoff comes years later. If your child plans to stop at the bachelor's level and enter the workforce immediately, comparable programs suggest they'd face starting salaries that may feel tight, especially in Ohio where cost of living varies widely. The $17,500 debt load is relatively controlled—below the national median for this major—which provides flexibility for either entering the job market or taking on additional loans for graduate education.

Before committing, get specific placement data from Cedarville itself: what percentage of graduates go directly to jobs versus graduate programs, and what career paths the job-seekers actually follow. The estimated numbers here suggest reasonable financial risk, but without knowing this program's particular track record for launching careers versus preparing for further education, you're making decisions in the dark.