Neurobiology and Neurosciences at Saint Louis University

A $22,459 starting salary with $27,000 in debt creates an immediate financial strain that most neuroscience graduates at other schools avoid. This program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for earnings—meaning 95% of neurobiology programs produce better outcomes—while carrying above-average debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.20 means graduates owe more than an entire year's salary, making standard 10-year loan repayment plans consume roughly 15% of pre-tax income.

The Missouri context offers little consolation. While this program sits at the 60th percentile statewide, that's only because Missouri has just three neuroscience programs total, and the state median matches Saint Louis University's $22,459 exactly. Given the selective student body (average SAT of 1326), these outcomes are particularly disappointing—comparable students at other neuroscience programs typically earn $31,687 their first year out.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means one or two outliers could skew the picture, but that uncertainty cuts both ways. For families considering this path, the safer bet is to look at neuroscience programs where the typical graduate earns 40% more from day one. If Saint Louis University is the destination, students should understand they're likely headed for graduate school or a gap period of low-wage lab work rather than a financially viable career straight out of college.