Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $28,381 track close to the $32,219 national median for Biology programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 31.7x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Biology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $25,193 against $28,381/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
Western Carolina University ranks #192 among 822 Biology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The $28,381-to-$55,306 earnings arc over five years reflects a 95% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.