Program Analysis
Graduates earn $44,525/yr, edging above the $36,628 national average for Biological and Physical Sciences — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand.
At 8.2x the cost of in-state tuition, the ten-year earnings outlook represents a strong return. Not exceptional, but meaningfully positive.
AI risk is moderate — 28% task exposure — and the 5% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $27,000 debt-to-$44,525 income ratio translates to about 7 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
Ranked #10 out of 26 programs, Grand Valley State University's Biological and Physical Sciences offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
Earnings growth is modest: $44,525 to $46,679 over five years (5% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.