Biological and Physical Sciences at Tidewater Community College
serving 11,797 students in Norfolk, VA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $30,605/yr, edging above the $26,356 national average for Biological and Physical Sciences — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand for this trade.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 37.4x 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 27% gap from the optimistic case.
At $9,259 in median debt against $30,605 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
Ranked #24 of 43 Biological and Physical Sciences programs, Tidewater Community College falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $30,605 to $41,396 over five years — a 35% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
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 Tidewater Community College
Considering a 4-Year Degree Instead?
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