Biology at New Mexico State University-Main Campus

New Mexico State's biology program starts graduates at just $26,533—well below both the national median ($32,316) and even the state median ($28,299). At 40th percentile statewide, this trails UNM by over $3,500 in first-year earnings. The debt load of $20,312 looks manageable on paper, but creates a concerning 0.77 ratio against those initial earnings, meaning graduates face nearly a year's salary in debt right out of the gate.

The program's saving grace is robust earnings growth: graduates see a 40% jump to $37,093 by year four, finally surpassing national averages. This trajectory suggests the degree opens doors, but you're essentially paying for credentials that take several years to deliver market-rate compensation. For a biology major—which typically requires graduate school for higher-paying careers anyway—starting this far behind creates a compounding disadvantage if your child needs to work before pursuing advanced degrees.

The bottom line: This program asks students to absorb below-average starting salaries at a debt level that's actually higher than the state median. Unless your child has strong graduate school plans already funded or can live at home those first few years, the delayed payoff makes this a risky investment compared to UNM or out-of-state options with better initial placement.