Biological and Physical Sciences at Riverside City College
with a mid-sized student body of 17,361 in Riverside, CA.
Program Analysis
Riverside City College Biological and Physical Sciences graduates command $33,201/yr out of the gate, well above the $26,356 national median. That 26% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
With a 185.8x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 37% 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.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $8,500 in median debt clears fast against $33,201 in annual earnings.
Riverside City College ranks #2 among 43 Biological and Physical Sciences programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The $33,201-to-$50,093 earnings arc over five years reflects a 51% 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 Riverside City College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.