Biology at Georgia State University

Georgia State's Biology program starts graduates at just $26,647—well below both the state median ($27,488) and national benchmarks ($32,316). Within Georgia alone, it ranks middle-of-the-pack at the 40th percentile, trailing schools like Middle Georgia State by nearly $9,000 in first-year earnings. For a program carrying $26,000 in debt, that initial year looks financially precarious, with graduates earning barely enough to cover basic living expenses while managing loan payments.

The trajectory changes dramatically by year four, when median earnings jump to $44,020—a 65% increase that suggests graduates who land in research roles, pharmaceutical sales, or pursue graduate credentials see significant income growth. This pattern is common for biology majors, where entry-level lab positions pay modestly but career advancement or additional degrees unlock higher earnings. Still, that four-year mark represents real career development time, not just automatic progression.

For families watching their budget, this is a high-patience investment. Your child will likely struggle financially in those first few years, potentially living at home or working side jobs to stay current on loans. If they're planning medical, dental, or graduate school—which many biology majors are—recognize they're adding 1-2 years of minimal earnings and likely more debt before seeing returns. If they're heading straight to work, programs like Middle Georgia State or Georgia College position graduates with a $5,000-8,000 head start that compounds over those critical early career years.