Genetics at Iowa State University

Iowa State's genetics program shows modest but steady earnings growth, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly with more data. Starting at $33,330, graduates reach nearly $50,000 by year four—a 50% jump that suggests this degree opens doors beyond entry-level lab positions. The program performs slightly above the national median and represents one of only two genetics bachelor's options in Iowa.

The debt load of $21,631 is reasonable, creating a 0.65 debt-to-earnings ratio that most graduates can manage. However, that first-year salary is tough—$33,330 in Ames goes further than in coastal cities, but it's still a lean start for someone carrying five figures in loans. The strong earnings trajectory matters here: by year four, that debt becomes much more manageable relative to income.

For families weighing this program, the key question is career path. Genetics bachelor's degrees often serve as stepping stones to graduate programs or specialized certifications where the real earning potential kicks in. If your student plans to work immediately after graduation, understand they'll likely face 2-3 years of tight budgets before salaries improve. If graduate school is the goal, these numbers look more like a reasonable foundation than a final destination.