Biological and Physical Sciences at Waubonsee Community College

Waubonsee's Biological and Physical Sciences associate's degree shows an unusual earnings trajectory that warrants close attention. While first-year earnings of $24,939 lag behind both the state and national medians by about $2,000, graduates see an impressive 85% income jump by year four, reaching $46,117—well above what most associate's programs deliver. This dramatic growth suggests many graduates successfully transfer to four-year institutions or move into better-paying technical roles after gaining experience.

However, that initial year matters. With earnings in just the 40th percentile among Illinois programs, graduates start well behind peers at comparable schools like College of Lake County ($37,724) or Joliet Junior College ($30,509). The modest debt of $8,067 helps—it's manageable on even that first-year salary—but families should understand their student may need financial support during that initial period or should plan for immediate transfer to a bachelor's program.

The value here depends entirely on what comes next. If this associate's is a stepping stone to a four-year degree or specialized certification, those strong year-four earnings suggest it's working as intended. But students planning to enter the workforce immediately after graduation will face a tougher first few years than they would at several other Illinois community colleges offering this same program.