Biological and Physical Sciences at College of Lake County
enrolling 9,282 students in Grayslake, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $37,724 put College of Lake County's Biological and Physical Sciences program 43% above the national median of $26,356 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.
With a 62.1x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 32% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Biological and Physical Sciences career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
College of Lake County ranks #8 among 43 Biological and Physical Sciences programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
A 42% earnings increase from $37,724 to $53,615 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Biological and Physical Sciences graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural sciences managers | $161,180 | +3.7% | 50% |
| Postsecondary teachers, all other | $78,490 | +1.8% | 100% |
| Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education | $64,580 | -1.6% | 67% |
About Biological and Physical Sciences Careers
Your career in the sciences likely begins in a classroom or a lab. As a secondary school teacher, you’ll spend your days guiding students through everything from frog dissections to chemical reactions, planning engaging lessons, and setting up lab equipment. Another path is postsecondary teaching, which involves more university-level lecturing, independent research, and mentoring future scientists.
Read the full Biological and Physical Sciences career guide →
Compare & Explore
Biological and Physical Sciences Overview
Biological and Physical Sciences at Other Schools
Other Majors at College of Lake County
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.