Biology at San Diego Miramar College

The most striking feature of Miramar's biology associate program is the dramatic earnings trajectory—from just $15,731 in year one to $52,214 by year four. That 232% growth rate suggests many graduates are either continuing their education or using the degree as a stepping stone to better-paying healthcare or lab positions. However, that first year number ranks in just the 10th percentile among California biology programs, meaning nine out of ten comparable programs deliver better immediate outcomes.

The $6,500 debt load is reasonable—actually below California's median for biology programs—which helps offset the weak initial earnings. Still, it's worth noting the small sample size here (under 30 graduates), so individual circumstances can dramatically skew these averages. The low Pell grant percentage (11%) also raises questions about whether this data captures the typical community college experience, as most California community colleges serve far more low-income students.

If your child plans to transfer to a four-year program or pursue healthcare licensure, that eventual $52,000 earning potential matters more than the rocky start. But if they're expecting to work immediately after graduation with competitive pay, other California programs—like Reedley College at $30,520 in year one—deliver far stronger immediate returns. The real question is whether your student can financially weather those first low-earning years.