Biological and Physical Sciences at Mt San Jacinto Community College District

Mt San Jacinto's biological and physical sciences associate degree delivers median performance at well below median cost—a combination that becomes more interesting when you look at California's community college landscape. While first-year earnings of $26,228 trail top performers like Riverside City College by $7,000, they edge out both the state and national medians, placing graduates in the 60th percentile among California programs. More importantly, the debt load of $6,625 sits significantly below the state median of $8,828, giving this program one of the better debt-to-earnings ratios you'll find for this degree.

The real question is what comes next. For many students, this associate degree serves as a stepping stone to a bachelor's program, where the full return materializes years down the line. In that context, graduating with 25% less debt than typical California students pursuing the same credential matters considerably—it means less financial burden carrying forward into university. That one-third of students receive Pell grants suggests the college understands its role in serving cost-conscious families.

If your child plans to transfer and complete a four-year degree in the sciences, this program offers a financially sensible entry point. The modest debt and competitive earnings create runway for further education without the weight of excessive loans.