Neurobiology and Neurosciences at The University of Texas at Austin

UT Austin's neuroscience program stands out sharply within Texas, ranking in the 80th percentile for earnings among the state's 10 programs—a meaningful advantage when most students stay in-state. At $34,820 first-year earnings, graduates earn $7,400 more than the Texas median and roughly $3,000 above the national average. This isn't just about UT's brand; it's about stronger career preparation or better access to research positions and medical school tracks that value this background.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $23,612, translating to a 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's manageable, though parents should understand what drives these modest first-year numbers: many neuroscience majors are heading to graduate school, medical school, or research positions that start low but lead somewhere. This isn't a lucrative bachelor's-and-done pathway. The relatively modest earnings reflect the field's structure more than the program's quality.

Here's what matters: if your child plans to continue their education—and most neuroscience majors do—this program positions them well while keeping debt contained. If they're planning to work immediately after graduation with just the bachelor's, the $35,000 starting salary deserves a realistic conversation about expenses and loan payments. The program performs well for what it is, but make sure it aligns with your child's actual graduate school plans, not just their current fascination with brain science.