Biological and Physical Sciences at Northern Virginia Community College
serving a student body of 31,737 in Annandale, VA.
Program Analysis
At $21,923 per year, Biological and Physical Sciences graduates from Northern Virginia Community College earn below the $26,356 national average. Lower costs or geographic factors may offset the earnings gap.
With a 32.2x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 40% 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.
The median debt load of $9,875 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
A #41 ranking among 43 Biological and Physical Sciences programs places Northern Virginia Community College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The $21,923-to-$46,948 earnings arc over five years reflects a 114% gain — well above average career growth for trade school graduates.
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 Northern Virginia Community College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.