Neurobiology and Neurosciences at Muhlenberg College
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
The limited data here—fewer than 30 graduates—makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions, but the available numbers suggest Muhlenberg's neuroscience program may struggle with post-graduation earnings. At $29,250, first-year earnings fall below both the Pennsylvania median ($30,103) and national average ($31,687), landing in just the 37th percentile nationally. Among Pennsylvania's 31 neuroscience programs, Penn graduates earn $39,880 and even regional schools like Temple produce higher starting salaries. The bright spot is remarkably low debt: at $27,000, Muhlenberg matches the state median and sits in the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with more debt.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.92 is manageable but not impressive for a science degree, especially from a selective school (average SAT 1327). Neuroscience graduates often pursue advanced degrees where these bachelor's-level earnings don't tell the full story, but if your student plans to work immediately after graduation, understand they'll likely start below $30,000. The low debt provides flexibility for graduate school without crushing financial pressure, which may be this program's real advantage. Given the small sample size, talk directly with recent graduates about their outcomes before making a final decision.
Where Muhlenberg College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all neurobiology and neurosciences bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Muhlenberg College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Muhlenberg College graduates earn $29k, placing them in the 37th percentile of all neurobiology and neurosciences bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Neurobiology and Neurosciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (31 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muhlenberg College | $29,250 | — | $27,000 | 0.92 |
| University of Pennsylvania | $39,880 | $85,126 | $12,000 | 0.30 |
| Allegheny College | $36,178 | $44,863 | $27,000 | 0.75 |
| Temple University | $30,956 | $46,517 | $26,000 | 0.84 |
| University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | $27,775 | $42,087 | $23,000 | 0.83 |
| University of Scranton | $25,057 | — | $27,000 | 1.08 |
| National Median | $31,687 | — | $22,936 | 0.72 |
Other Neurobiology and Neurosciences Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia | $66,104 | $39,880 | $12,000 |
| Allegheny College Meadville | $54,960 | $36,178 | $27,000 |
| Temple University Philadelphia | $22,082 | $30,956 | $26,000 |
| University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Pittsburgh | $21,524 | $27,775 | $23,000 |
| University of Scranton Scranton | $52,309 | $25,057 | $27,000 |
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 Muhlenberg College, approximately 21% 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 20 graduates with reported earnings and 43 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.