Biology at College of Coastal Georgia

Starting at just over $23,000, College of Coastal Georgia's biology graduates earn roughly $9,000 less than the state median—placing this program in the bottom quarter of Georgia's biology programs. That first-year figure ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of biology programs produce higher initial earnings. However, the debt picture offers a silver lining: at $12,025, graduates carry less than half the typical debt load for biology majors in Georgia ($25,878) and nationwide ($25,000). The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 means graduates owe about six months' salary, which is manageable even on those modest starting wages.

The 41% earnings jump to $32,775 by year four shows significant recovery, bringing graduates closer to state and national averages. This trajectory suggests the program may serve students who need additional credentialing or experience before accessing better-paying positions—perhaps those continuing to professional school or building skills in entry-level roles. The institution's 99% admission rate and high Pell grant enrollment (41%) indicate it's serving students who might not access flagship programs, making the low debt particularly important.

For families prioritizing affordability, this program delivers bachelor's-level biology credentials without crushing debt. But students serious about biology careers should understand they'll start well behind peers from Georgia College, Middle Georgia State, or Kennesaw State. If your student plans to work immediately after graduation rather than pursue graduate degrees, those higher-earning alternatives deserve serious consideration despite their likely higher costs.