Biology at Palm Beach Atlantic University

Palm Beach Atlantic's biology program graduates earn less than the national average but actually outperform most Florida biology programs—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide despite scoring below the national median. The $28,991 first-year salary trails national figures, yet beats Florida's state median of $27,034. More concerning is the debt load: at $19,250, it sits at the 85th percentile nationally, meaning 85% of biology programs saddle students with more debt. That's actually good news, keeping the debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.66.

The 34% earnings bump from year one to year four ($28,991 to $38,880) suggests graduates eventually find their footing, though the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates reported—makes these numbers less reliable than larger programs. For context, Florida community colleges like St. Petersburg and Miami Dade are producing biology grads who earn $35,000+ right out of the gate, which raises questions about whether a private university premium is justified here.

For families weighing this program, the relatively modest debt is the silver lining. If your child is committed to biology and specifically drawn to Palm Beach Atlantic's faith-based environment, the financial risk is contained. But purely from an earnings standpoint, this isn't a standout investment—especially when state schools and even community colleges are showing stronger initial outcomes.