Biology at Western Carolina University

Western Carolina's biology program starts behind but catches up surprisingly fast. First-year graduates earn just $28,381—below both the NC median ($30,692) and national average ($32,316), placing them in the 40th percentile statewide. But by year four, earnings jump 52% to $43,110, vaulting past Meredith College's outcome and landing WCU among the top biology programs in North Carolina.

The debt load of $26,037 is manageable and slightly below the state median, making that difficult first year more bearable with a debt-to-earnings ratio under 1.0. The key question is what happens during those early years—whether graduates are pursuing additional credentials, working entry-level lab positions, or finding their footing in related fields. The strong four-year outcome suggests many eventually land in roles that value their biology training, whether in healthcare, research, or environmental science.

For families weighing in-state options, this represents solid value despite the slow start. You're paying less than at NC State while achieving comparable mid-career outcomes, though your student should expect lean early years and possibly need family support or a side job initially. The 87% admission rate means it's accessible, and the trajectory shows the degree opens doors—they just take a few years to walk through.