Biology at Reedley College

Reedley College's biology associate program punches well above its weight, ranking in the 80th percentile among California's 105 biology programs—an impressive feat for a community college in the Central Valley. Graduates earn $30,520 in their first year, rising to $39,274 by year four, both figures substantially exceeding California's median of $22,741 for this degree. Nationally, the program ranks even higher at the 79th percentile, outperforming three-quarters of similar programs across the country. The $6,500 median debt sits just below the state average and represents only 21% of first-year earnings, making this one of the more affordable pathways into healthcare or science-related work.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story: graduates see 29% income growth over four years, suggesting they're advancing into better positions rather than stalling out. While an associate degree in biology typically serves as a stepping stone—toward nursing, lab tech work, or further education—Reedley's graduates appear to be moving successfully into those next phases. The program's outcomes beat nearby Fresno City College by more than $7,000 annually despite similar debt levels.

For families looking at two-year options in the sciences, this represents a strong value proposition. Your child gets solid career momentum at minimal debt, setting them up well whether they enter the workforce immediately or continue toward a bachelor's degree.