Microbiological Sciences and Immunology at New Mexico State University-Main Campus

New Mexico State's microbiology program produces first-year earnings of $36,198, which trails the national median by about $1,800. While debt figures here are estimated from similar bachelor's programs nationally at roughly $22,100, that level translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61—better than many life science tracks where students often face heavier borrowing relative to early-career pay. The program serves a notably accessible student body (40% Pell recipients, 76% admission rate), which matters when evaluating outcomes: graduates are entering decent-paying scientific roles without crushing debt loads.

The earnings do sit below the national 50th percentile for microbiology programs, suggesting this isn't the highest-paying version of this degree. But keep perspective: peer programs at the 75th percentile nationally only reach $43,600 in year one—we're talking about a $7,000 difference, not a make-or-break gap. For students planning graduate work in microbiology, immunology, or public health, the combination of manageable estimated debt and solid foundational training could matter more than maximizing that first-year number.

Bottom line: This looks like reasonable preparation for science careers at a price point that shouldn't derail post-grad plans. The estimated debt appears manageable against typical microbiology earnings, but students serious about research or clinical work should plan on advanced degrees—bachelor's-level positions in this field have earning ceilings.