Physiology, Pathology at Wichita State University

Wichita State's Physiology and Pathology bachelor's program produces graduates earning slightly above both national and Kansas medians, but that $32,125 starting salary deserves scrutiny. While the program ranks in the 60th percentile among Kansas offerings—essentially matching Kansas State's outcomes—these earnings barely exceed what many entry-level jobs pay without a four-year degree. The relatively modest $20,500 debt load helps, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.64, but parents should understand this likely represents a stepping stone degree rather than a terminal credential.

The real question is your student's post-graduation plan. If they're headed to professional school (medical, dental, pharmacy), this program provides solid preparation at a reasonable price point. The controlled debt matters significantly when facing additional years of expensive graduate education. However, if they're planning to enter the workforce directly with just this bachelor's degree, the earning potential looks limited—that $32,000 salary won't stretch far even in Wichita's lower cost-of-living market.

This program works financially as part of a longer educational pathway, where keeping undergraduate debt under control is crucial. For students stopping at the bachelor's level, though, they should have clear career targets that justify these modest starting earnings.