Biological and Physical Sciences at Empire State University

Four years into their career, graduates from this program reach median earnings of $68,437—a strong figure that suggests solid long-term potential despite modest beginnings. The first-year estimate of $36,362, derived from three comparable New York programs, aligns exactly with the state median and sits slightly above the national benchmark of $34,380. With estimated debt around $22,346 (based on similar institutions nationally), the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 is quite manageable, meaning graduates would owe about seven months of their first year's salary.

The dramatic jump from year one to year four—nearly doubling income—is the real story here. While we can't confirm these specific outcomes for Empire State graduates given the limited sample size, this trajectory mirrors what similar biological and physical sciences programs produce. For a program serving 35% Pell-eligible students, these figures suggest decent accessibility paired with reasonable debt levels.

The uncertainty around exact outcomes matters, but the pattern is encouraging: modest debt burden, earnings that match state norms initially, and strong mid-career growth. If your student thrives in sciences and values flexibility (Empire State's model often attracts non-traditional students), this looks like a solid financial foundation, though you'll want to understand how the program's structure fits their learning style.