Analysis
Kennesaw State's biology program stands out in Georgia's crowded field, ranking in the 60th percentile statewideβa meaningful achievement given that 49 schools compete for the same students. More importantly, graduates see their earnings jump 53% by year four, reaching $48,140. That four-year figure exceeds what many biology programs deliver even at graduation, suggesting graduates successfully transition into professional roles rather than remaining stuck in lab tech positions. The debt load of $26,205 is slightly above the state median but manageable given the strong earnings trajectory.
The first-year earnings of $31,530 look modest, but context matters here. Biology graduates often need time to complete certification programs, secure research positions, or gain admission to professional schools. The robust sample size (100+ graduates) confirms this pattern is reliable, not a statistical fluke. While programs like Middle Georgia State show higher starting salaries, Kennesaw's four-year outcomes demonstrate the degree provides solid career momentum.
For Georgia families, this program represents a practical investment at an accessible institution. The 0.83 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically manage loan payments while building toward better-paying roles. If your child plans to work in healthcare, pursue graduate school, or enter research, Kennesaw's track record of earnings growth should ease concerns about that initial salary dip.
Where Kennesaw State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Kennesaw State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kennesaw State University | $31,530 | $48,140 | +53% |
| Morehouse College | $19,679 | $71,611 | +264% |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | $19,167 | $54,251 | +183% |
| Augusta University | $28,978 | $49,385 | +70% |
| Gordon State College | $29,542 | $49,054 | +66% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (49 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,786 | $31,530 | $48,140 | $26,205 | 0.83 | |
| $4,432 | $35,281 | β | $29,220 | 0.83 | |
| $8,998 | $32,550 | $39,150 | $25,000 | 0.77 | |
| $5,068 | $31,665 | $47,292 | $31,500 | 0.99 | |
| $5,009 | $31,007 | $48,562 | $21,500 | 0.69 | |
| $3,283 | $30,839 | $39,807 | $10,323 | 0.33 | |
| National Median | β | $32,316 | β | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Forensic Science Technicians
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Biological Technicians
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture Technicians
Food Science Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Kennesaw State University, approximately 35% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 223 graduates with reported earnings and 276 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.