Biological and Physical Sciences at Rock Valley College
with a smaller student body of 4,362 in Rockford, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $21,956 place Rock Valley College below the $26,356 national median for Biological and Physical Sciences — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 43.0x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Biological and Physical Sciences programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Biological and Physical Sciences's career paths, with 28% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 40% gap from the optimistic case.
Ranked #35 of 43 Biological and Physical Sciences programs, Rock Valley College falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $46,438 show a 112% jump from the $21,956 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration in this trade.
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 Rock Valley College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.