Biological and Physical Sciences at Moraine Valley Community College

Moraine Valley's Biological and Physical Sciences associate's program shows a dramatic earnings trajectory that matters more than the initial modest salary. While graduates earn just $23,128 in their first year—below both the Illinois median ($26,547) and national average—their earnings nearly double to $42,653 by year four. That 84% growth rate suggests many graduates are using this degree as a stepping stone, likely transferring to four-year programs or entering careers with clear advancement paths.

The financial risk here is minimal. At $6,500 in debt, graduates owe significantly less than typical borrowers in this field (which averages $8,250 statewide). The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 means first-year salary covers the debt nearly four times over, making repayment manageable even during that initial lower-earning period. For context, Moraine Valley ranks around the 40th percentile among Illinois programs for earnings but in the 85th percentile for keeping debt low—a trade-off that favors accessibility over immediate high earnings.

The caveat is that this program performs well below top Illinois community colleges like College of Lake County ($37,724) and City Colleges options. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation rather than transfer, those alternatives might offer better short-term returns. But if the goal is affordable preparation for a bachelor's degree or a career with growth potential, Moraine Valley provides a low-cost foundation with manageable debt that won't constrain future choices.