Biological and Physical Sciences at The University of Montana

The small sample size here demands real caution—with fewer than 30 graduates, we're looking through a narrow lens at what could be a very specialized track or an unusual cohort year. That said, the numbers reveal an uncomfortable reality: first-year earnings of $25,950 fall dramatically short of the $34,380 national median for biological and physical sciences programs, landing in just the 11th percentile nationally.

The Montana context offers limited comfort. While this program ranks at the 60th percentile statewide, that's only because Montana has just two programs offering this degree—essentially a coin flip comparison. The debt load of $16,784 is the lowest nationally (95th percentile), which initially seems positive until you realize it still represents nearly eight months of take-home pay at that first-year salary level.

For a parent considering this path, the core issue isn't just the debt—it's what this degree is preparing students to do immediately after graduation. Biological and physical sciences bachelor's degrees often serve as stepping stones to graduate programs, medical school, or specialized certifications rather than terminal degrees. If your child isn't planning additional schooling, these entry-level earnings should prompt serious questions about career pathways. If graduate school is the plan, factor in those additional costs before the degree generates its full earning potential.