Biology at Fresno City College

Fresno City College's Biology associate's program shows a notable split: graduates leave with far less debt than most peers but earn below the national average. With $6,625 in median debt—less than half the $10,384 national figure—this program ranks in the 89th percentile for keeping borrowing low. That's a real advantage for a degree that typically serves as a stepping stone to further education or entry-level healthcare and lab positions.

The earnings picture requires more context. The $22,741 first-year median sits at the 21st percentile nationally but actually matches California's state median exactly, placing it at the 60th percentile among in-state programs. This matters because California's cost of living and wage floors differ significantly from national averages, and most community college students attend close to home. The 0.29 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable even at these income levels.

For parents considering this program, the key question is what comes next. If your student plans to transfer to a four-year institution—the typical path for biology majors—Fresno City's combination of low debt and in-state competitiveness makes it a solid financial launchpad. If they're entering the workforce directly with an associate's, understand that Biology isn't a high-earning terminal degree anywhere, but at least they won't be burdened with excessive loans while building toward their next step.