Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences at Seattle Pacific University

A biology degree typically leads to lab positions or further schooling, and the estimated first-year salary of $39,225 here matches Washington's state median exactly—suggesting graduates from similar programs start near the middle of the pack. The estimated $17,500 in debt sits below both national and state averages for cellular biology programs, which is encouraging, though without reported outcomes specific to Seattle Pacific, it's impossible to know whether graduates here fare better or worse than peers at UW-Seattle, where earnings run about $3,000 higher.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 means borrowers would owe roughly half their first year's salary, which is manageable compared to many science programs. However, cellular biology bachelor's degrees often serve as stepping stones to medical school, graduate programs, or certification requirements rather than terminal credentials for immediate careers. If your student plans to continue their education, factor in additional debt accumulation. If they're planning to work immediately after graduation, that $39,225 salary—while competitive with other Washington biology programs—translates to about $3,200 monthly before taxes in one of the country's most expensive metros.

Without actual graduate outcomes from Seattle Pacific's program, you're making a decision based on how similar programs perform statewide. That's workable for comparison purposes, but confirms the need to ask the department directly about post-graduation placement rates, what percentage of students pursue advanced degrees, and whether their biology graduates typically stay in Seattle or relocate for opportunities.