Biological and Physical Sciences at Kishwaukee College

Kishwaukee College's Biological and Physical Sciences associate degree tells a story of patience—graduates start below both state and national medians at $24,000, but those willing to stick it out see earnings jump 66% to over $40,000 by year four. That's unusually strong growth for a two-year program, though it begs the question of what happens in those intervening years. With just under $9,500 in debt, the initial debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 isn't terrible, but it reflects that sluggish first-year start.

The challenge is that this program ranks in the 40th percentile among Illinois schools—meaning 60% of similar programs in the state deliver better first-year outcomes. Compare Kishwaukee's $24,000 to College of Lake County's $37,700, and you're looking at a $13,000+ gap right out of the gate. Even the state median sits at $26,500. For students who need immediate earning power to service debt or support themselves, that first year matters.

The value proposition here depends entirely on trajectory. If your child will use this as a stepping stone—transferring to a four-year program or gaining credentials that unlock better positions—that 66% growth suggests real momentum. But if they need this degree to stand alone financially in year one, stronger programs exist across Illinois.