Biological and Physical Sciences at University of Georgia

UGA's Biological and Physical Sciences program shows an unusual pattern that requires careful interpretation. First-year graduates earn just $25,508—ranking in the bottom 5% nationally—but by year four, earnings more than double to $52,377. This 105% growth rate suggests many graduates use this degree as a stepping stone, potentially returning for advanced degrees or transitioning into higher-paying specialized roles. The $20,600 debt load is manageable relative to that first-year income, though parents should plan for their graduate to need financial support early in their career.

The Georgia context offers important perspective: this program actually ranks at the 60th percentile among the state's biological and physical sciences programs, though there are only three schools offering this degree in Georgia. The low national ranking reflects how UGA graduates enter the workforce initially—many in research assistant, lab technician, or gap-year positions before pivoting. This isn't necessarily a weak program; it may simply attract students with long-term academic or professional plans that don't show immediate earnings returns.

For families evaluating this program, the key question is whether your student plans to pursue graduate education or professional school. If so, the reasonable debt and eventual strong earnings make sense. If they're expecting to launch a career immediately after graduation with just this bachelor's degree, the first few years will likely require financial patience or additional credentials to reach competitive salaries.