Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences at Western Washington University

Western Washington University's cellular biology program hits right at the state median for earnings ($39,225 first-year, compared to Washington's $39,225 median), but trails the University of Washington-Seattle's graduates by about $3,000 annually. The 60th percentile ranking among Washington programs means this is a middle-of-the-pack option in a state with limited choices for this major. More encouraging is the trajectory: earnings climb 19% by year four, reaching $46,707, which beats the national 75th percentile and suggests graduates successfully transition into research positions or graduate programs that boost their earning power.

The $19,500 debt load is actually lower than both state and national medians for this program, giving graduates a manageable 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's a meaningful advantage—cellular biology degrees often lead to graduate school, and starting with less undergraduate debt provides more flexibility for that next step. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonable confidence in these numbers without being a tiny cohort.

For families considering this program, the value proposition depends on your expectations. If you're comparing WWU to UW-Seattle and can get in-state tuition at both, the $3,000 annual earnings difference might justify the more selective option. But if your student wants a less competitive environment (91% admission rate versus UW's selectivity) with lower debt and solid biology preparation, particularly for graduate school, Western Washington delivers a reasonable return without the financial strain that often accompanies this degree.