Biological and Physical Sciences at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State graduates with this interdisciplinary science degree start strong at $44,525—outperforming 93% of similar programs nationally and matching Michigan's state median. The manageable $27,000 debt load (lower than 95% of comparable programs) creates one of the better debt-to-earnings ratios you'll find in the sciences. However, there's a catch: earnings drop to $39,223 by year four, a 12% decline that's unusual for STEM fields.

That earnings dip warrants a closer look. With fewer than 30 graduates in this sample, it's difficult to know whether this reflects the program itself or just a few graduates pursuing lower-paying paths like research positions or graduate school preparation. The strong initial placement and low debt suggest the program delivers solid foundational skills. Michigan has only five schools offering this particular interdisciplinary science degree, making direct comparisons limited.

For parents, the calculation depends on your child's post-graduation plans. If they're using this as a springboard to medical school, graduate programs, or certification in a specific field, the low debt and respectable starting salary make it a reasonable choice. If they expect the bachelor's degree to be their terminal credential in the workforce, the backward earnings trajectory is concerning enough to explore more targeted science programs with clearer career pathways.