Neurobiology and Neurosciences at Saint Edward's University

Saint Edward's neuroscience graduates earn less than the national median but actually outperform most Texas programs in the field—a distinction that matters since 60% of these graduates will likely stay in-state for early career opportunities. The $29,418 first-year salary sits above the Texas median of $27,406, though it trails UT Austin's significantly stronger outcomes. With debt of $24,250, graduates face manageable monthly payments around $270, requiring roughly 11% of their gross income—workable but not comfortable on an entry-level salary.

The bigger question is career trajectory. Neuroscience bachelor's degrees often serve as stepping stones to graduate programs in medicine, research, or clinical psychology rather than terminal credentials. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation, these earnings may feel tight in Austin's expensive market. But if they're using this degree as pre-med preparation or as a foundation for further study, the moderate debt load won't create the kind of burden that derails graduate school plans.

This program works best for students who know they're headed to additional training. The combination of reasonable debt and slightly above-average Texas outcomes gives graduates flexibility—they can afford to take research assistant positions or pursue internships that build toward graduate applications. For students planning to stop at the bachelor's level, however, the $29,000 starting salary deserves a hard look at whether that income supports their post-graduation plans in a city where rent alone can consume half their paycheck.