Different Types of Science Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The demand for skilled professionals in science continues to rise as industries increasingly rely on innovation and data-driven solutions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in science-related occupations is projected to grow significantly faster than the average for all jobs over the next decade, reflecting strong market demand and expanding career opportunities. Choosing the right educational path in science can profoundly impact professional success and earning potential.

This article provides a detailed guide to the various types of science degrees available and offers insights into the salary expectations that graduates may encounter, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their futures.

Key Points About Different Types of Science Degrees and Their Salaries

Associate degrees in science typically lead to entry-level jobs with median annual salaries around $40,000, but they offer a cost-effective pathway to gain practical skills and enter the workforce quickly.
Bachelor's degrees in science open doors to a wider range of professional positions, with median salaries averaging $65,000 to $75,000 depending on the field, and they are often required for advancement in research and technical roles.
Master's degrees in science generally result in higher earning potential, with median salaries often exceeding $90,000 annually, and they substantially improve long-term career growth and leadership opportunities in specialized scientific sectors.

What Are the Different Types of Science Degrees Available?

Understanding the different types and levels of science degrees is crucial for students to make informed choices that align with their career goals and educational backgrounds. Each degree offers unique academic focuses and skill sets suited to varied professional paths and interests.

Below is an overview of the main types of science degrees available and what makes each unique, which can help students considering fast paced online degrees or traditional programs.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.): Focuses on natural and formal sciences such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Coursework includes analytical skills, laboratory experience, and quantitative reasoning to build a strong scientific foundation.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Science: Combines scientific studies with a broader liberal arts education, including humanities and social sciences. This blends scientific literacy with enhanced communication and critical thinking abilities.
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.): Emphasizes practical and technical applications of science through applied research, technology, and hands-on projects geared towards technical professions or applied research roles.
Bachelor of Science in Engineering (e.g., B.S.E.E., B.S.Ag.E.): Integrates science fundamentals with engineering principles, covering scientific theory alongside engineering design, problem-solving, mathematics, material science, and engineering technology.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (B.S.C.S.): Specializes in computational theory, software and hardware design, and IT. It focuses on programming, algorithms, data structures, and systems analysis, blending scientific inquiry with technical computing skills.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with science-related degrees in STEM fields earned a median annual wage of $95,420 in 2022, nearly double the median wage for all occupations, making these educational choices significant for long-term earning potential. For those interested in accelerated options, exploring fast paced online degrees can offer a more flexible pathway into these science careers.

What Specializations Are Available in Science Degrees?

Specialization is a crucial factor when choosing a science degree because it determines the specific knowledge and skills students will develop, which directly impacts their career trajectory. Aligning education with particular career goals allows students to maximize their job prospects and earning potential in competitive fields.

Below are some common science specializations, each offering focused study areas and distinct career opportunities:

Biological Science: Focuses on living organisms, including their structure, function, and evolution. Students develop laboratory, data analysis, and research skills, preparing for careers in healthcare, biotechnology, environmental management, or scientific research.
Physical Science: Covers chemistry, physics, and related fields that study non-living systems. Graduates gain strong analytical and problem-solving abilities useful in research, engineering, education, or environmental science roles.
Computer Science: Explores software development, algorithms, and computational theory. This specialization trains students in programming, data analytics, and systems design, leading to positions in technology, software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity, with median salaries reaching $136,620 in 2022.
Earth Science: Examines the Earth's structure and natural processes, including geology and meteorology. Key skills include fieldwork and environmental assessment, supporting jobs in environmental consulting, resource management, and government research.
Health Science: Integrates biology and social sciences to study human health and disease. Students learn anatomy, physiology, and public health, qualifying for careers in medicine, nursing, public health, and healthcare administration.
Environmental Science: Emphasizes sustainability, conservation, and the human-environment relationship. Skills in policy analysis and ecological research prepare graduates for work in NGOs, government agencies, and environmental consulting.

Students aiming to find easy master's degrees that pay well should carefully consider these specializations to ensure their education aligns with in-demand skills and career growth potential.

How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of Science Degree?

Understanding the duration of various science degree programs is crucial for students planning their education and subsequent career paths. Knowing how long each degree typically takes helps in setting realistic goals and managing time and financial resources effectively. Here is an overview of the main science degree types and their typical completion times.

Associate Degree in Science: This degree usually takes about two years of full-time study to complete. Students attending part-time or transferring credits from high school or other institutions may finish faster or slower. Many community colleges offer flexible scheduling and online courses for this program.
Bachelor's Degree in Science: Typically requiring four years of full-time study, this degree can sometimes be completed in three years if students take heavier course loads or enter with advanced placement credits. Online and accelerated programs are increasingly common to accommodate different student needs.
Master's Degree in Science: A master's program generally takes 1 to 2 years beyond a bachelor's degree. Part-time enrollment and thesis requirements can extend this timeline, while some accelerated or online options allow completion within a year.
Doctoral Degree in Science (PhD): Earning a PhD usually requires 4 to 6 years after the master's or bachelor's degree, depending on the research area and dissertation progress. Program length varies widely due to the nature of original research, with some candidates finishing earlier through focused study or extended programs due to extensive research demands.

Breakdown of All 4-Year Online Title IV Institutions

Source: U.S. Department of Education, 2023

Are There Accelerated Science Degree Programs?

Accelerated science degree programs are designed to reduce the typical time required to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree by about one year. Instead of the traditional six years-four years for undergraduate studies followed by two years for graduate work-many universities offer formats such as 4+1 programs. These allow students to complete their undergraduate courses in three to four years and start taking graduate-level classes during their final undergraduate year.

Common methods of acceleration include condensed courses that cover material at a faster pace, year-round enrollment options that incorporate summer and winter terms, and the strategic use of transfer, AP, or dual-enrollment credits that count toward degree requirements. Some programs even permit up to 12 graduate credits to count toward both degrees, helping students save both time and money. Fields like biomedical science, biochemistry, data science, and environmental earth sciences frequently offer these accelerated pathways, enabling graduates to enter the workforce or pursue advanced study sooner than usual.

However, these programs come with notable challenges and requirements. The accelerated pace demands a high level of commitment and advanced time management skills, as students typically face heavier course loads with fewer breaks. Eligibility often requires maintaining a strong academic record, commonly a minimum GPA around 3.25, alongside completing necessary prerequisite courses.

Applications for such programs usually occur during the sophomore or junior years, adding a layer of planning well before graduation. Although the financial and professional benefits can be substantial-biological scientists and data scientists earn median annual wages of approximately $89,610 and $103,500 respectively according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics-the intensity of the workload means these programs suit students who are highly motivated and prepared for a rigorous academic experience.

Are Online Science Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Most online and traditional science degree programs in the United States uphold similar academic standards due to stringent accreditation requirements. Both formats must fulfill independent accreditation criteria that guarantee the quality, legitimacy, and depth of their curricula, especially in research- and laboratory-based fields. Traditional programs often emphasize in-person labs, direct faculty mentorship, and collaborative projects, which are vital for hands-on disciplines like biology or chemistry.

Meanwhile, online science degrees increasingly utilize virtual labs, simulation software, and remote teamwork to replicate these essential experiences. Recent research indicates that learning outcomes from online science courses are comparable to or even exceed those of traditional formats. For instance, a Babson Survey found that 77% of academic leaders rated online results as similar or better than classroom learning. Moreover, students enrolled fully online may develop stronger positive attitudes toward their field and demonstrate up to 60% better information retention than their traditional counterparts.

Employer acceptance of online science degrees has grown considerably in recent years, especially when the degree is awarded by a regionally accredited school with a solid reputation and physical campus presence. Many employers now prioritize an institution's credibility and standing over the mode of education delivery. According to U.S. News & World Report, well-known and properly accredited colleges face little differentiation in employer recognition between online and on-campus degrees.

However, degrees from lesser-known or solely online institutions might encounter more scrutiny, particularly in specialized or high-paying science disciplines. Ultimately, the credibility of a science degree-whether earned online or in person-is more closely tied to the institution's accreditation, program reputation, and how familiar the industry is with the provider than to the learning format itself.

How Much Does Each Type of Science Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding tuition differences across science degree levels is essential for effective budgeting and long-term financial planning. Prospective students need clear expectations about costs to avoid unexpected financial burdens. The following list outlines the typical tuition ranges for each type of Science degree and highlights key factors influencing overall expenses.

Associate Degree in Science: Annual tuition at community colleges for an associate in Science typically ranges from $3,968 to $5,100 at the most affordable online institutions. Public colleges usually charge less than private ones, and online options often reduce costs further. Many students can also apply for federal Pell Grants, state aid, or local scholarships to help offset expenses.
Bachelor's Degree in Science: Tuition varies widely depending on the institution and residency status. Affordable online universities offer rates as low as $4,162 per year, while public in-state universities average $9,000 to $20,000 annually for tuition and fees. Nonresidents and private college students may face costs from $20,000 up to over $60,000 per year. Students frequently rely on a combination of federal and state grants, merit-based scholarships, and institutional aid to decrease out-of-pocket payments.
Master's in Science: Graduate science programs generally charge more per credit, with online master's tuition ranging from $7,920 to $10,890 annually at affordable schools. Top research universities, however, can charge between $20,000 and $50,000 or more each year. Residency status, program prestige, and enrollment format (online or on campus) affect pricing. Graduate students often secure funding via assistantships, research grants, and federal loans.
Doctorate in Science (PhD): While published tuition rates for doctoral programs frequently fall between $20,000 and $50,000 per year, many full-time PhD students receive substantial funding. Research or teaching assistantships, fellowships, and tuition waivers are common, particularly at research-intensive institutions, significantly reducing the actual cost. These support packages make the net expense far lower than listed fees for many doctoral candidates.

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of Science Degree?

The level of your science degree-associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral-significantly influences the career opportunities available to you and the types of roles you are qualified for. Generally, higher degrees allow you to pursue more specialized, research-intensive, and leadership positions, while entry-level degrees prepare you for technical or support roles. Below is an overview of common jobs associated with each type of science degree to help guide your career planning.

Associate Degree in Science: This degree typically qualifies graduates for technician and support roles in laboratories, healthcare, and environmental agencies. Common job titles include laboratory technician, biological technician, and forensic science technician, where responsibilities focus on sample processing, equipment maintenance, and assisting scientific research in hospitals, environmental labs, or government agencies. Forensic science technicians can expect an average salary around $61,000 per year.
Bachelor's Degree in Science: Graduates with a bachelor's degree often work as research assistants, quality control analysts, microbiologists, or environmental scientists. They may find roles in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food production, environmental consulting, and healthcare. These jobs involve designing experiments, analyzing samples, and preparing technical reports. Environmental scientists earn a median salary of about $63,119 annually.
Master's Degree in Science: A master's degree opens the door to positions like research scientist, biomedical engineer, clinical research coordinator, and data analyst. These roles generally entail independent research, project leadership, and specialized expertise in academic, industrial, or government research environments. Biomedical engineers, for example, earn a national average salary of $86,755 per year. Students interested in further advancement may explore affordable online master's programs to deepen their expertise.
Doctoral Degree (PhD) in Science: PhD holders often pursue careers as university faculty, principal investigators, senior research scientists, or industry R&D leaders. These roles emphasize original research, scientific innovation, and team supervision across academia, government, or private sectors. Salaries vary but senior research scientists and university professors commonly earn over $100,000 annually depending on discipline and location.

How Do Salaries Differ by Science Degree Type?

Degree level often influences earning potential in the field of science, with higher degrees typically leading to greater salaries over time. Understanding these differences can help students make informed educational and career decisions. The following list outlines typical salary ranges for each major science degree type and highlights key factors influencing pay.

Associate Degree in Science: Graduates with an associate degree usually qualify for entry-level technician roles, such as biochemical or nuclear technicians, with average starting salaries ranging from $45,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on the industry and geographic region. These positions provide a solid starting point, but salary growth tends to be limited without pursuing further education.
Bachelor's Degree in Science: A bachelor's degree expands job opportunities, with starting salaries varying widely by major. For example, biological sciences majors may start around $47,000, chemistry around $55,000, and physics around $70,000 annually. Higher-paying roles, including chemical and biomedical engineers, offer salaries near $93,000 and $86,000 respectively. Location and industry demand heavily influence these figures, and advancing to graduate studies can increase mid-career earnings substantially.
Master's Degree in Science: Holding a master's degree typically results in higher initial salaries, with national averages near $95,000 annually. Specialized positions, such as molecular technical supervisors, may earn over $80,000. This degree is especially valuable in environmental science, engineering, and health sciences, where advanced expertise translates directly into higher pay.
Doctoral Degree in Science: The highest earning potential is generally associated with doctoral degrees, often held by research scientists, medical researchers, and university faculty. Median salaries for Ph.D. holders in science average around $118,000 annually. Earnings can increase significantly with industry experience, especially in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and physical sciences.

When considering where to pursue your studies, exploring FAFSA approved online schools can provide flexible options that support advancing through these degree levels and ultimately enhancing earning potential.

Is There High Demand for Science Degree Holders in the Job Market?

There is strong and growing demand for science degree holders in the US job market, driven largely by emerging technologies and evolving workforce needs. Fields such as data science are experiencing especially rapid expansion, with data scientist roles expected to grow by 36% over the next decade. Other sectors like software development, artificial intelligence, sustainable energy, and biotechnology are similarly on the rise, reflecting companies' increasing reliance on technological innovation and data-driven decision-making.

Life sciences employment reached a record 2.1 million in March 2025, demonstrating the sector's resilience even in uncertain economic times. This demand is fueled not only by new job creation but also by the need to replace retiring workers, with an average of 144,700 annual openings projected across life, physical, and social science roles nationwide.

Regional differences significantly shape opportunities for science degree holders, with metropolitan areas such as Boston-Cambridge, Raleigh-Durham, and Washington, D.C.-Baltimore emerging as hotspots for science-related jobs and degree issuance. Science graduates tend to benefit from higher employment rates and job stability compared to non-STEM fields, while median salaries in science and engineering careers often outpace those in other sectors.

For students exploring their career options, understanding these dynamics - along with considering pathways to top paying trade jobs can be crucial in making informed decisions. Given current trends, the outlook for those entering the workforce with science degrees remains highly favorable, supported by sustained growth across multiple industries and regions.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of Science Degree?

Choosing the right science degree level is a critical decision that shapes both your future career opportunities and how well your education fits your personal circumstances. Making an informed choice helps ensure your degree aligns with your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Consider the following key factors when selecting a science degree:

Career Goals: Different science degrees, such as associate, bachelor's, master's, or PhD, open doors to distinct career paths and earning potentials. For example, biological scientists with a bachelor's degree earn a median annual salary of about $66,510, while advanced degrees can lead to higher salaries in research or academic roles.
Personal Interests and Strengths: Genuine curiosity and self-confidence in a science discipline are strong predictors of persistence and satisfaction. Choosing a major aligned with your personal interests increases the likelihood of degree completion and career success.
Job Demand and Stability: Some science fields offer higher job security and growth prospects. For instance, computer and information research scientists typically require at least a master's degree, with a median salary of $136,620 and a 23% projected job growth rate from 2022 to 2032.
Time and Financial Commitment: Higher-level degrees often demand more years of study and greater financial investment. Weigh the costs of tuition and potential debt against the time to enter the workforce and expected salary increases over your career.
Support Systems and Mentorship: Access to mentors and inclusive academic environments significantly impacts persistence and success, especially for underrepresented groups. Strong support networks can enrich your educational experience and professional growth.

What Science Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Janus: "Completing my degree in environmental science opened doors I never imagined, especially in fields focused on sustainability and conservation. The hands-on research opportunities gave me a deep appreciation for how science can directly impact policy and community health. Starting my career with this background, I've been able to collaborate with local governments to improve water quality and protect natural habitats. It's been incredibly rewarding to see tangible results from our work, and it inspires me every day to keep pushing for environmental justice. "

Josel: "Graduating with a computer science degree was both challenging and exciting, particularly because the field constantly evolves with new technologies. This degree gave me the technical expertise and problem-solving skills to launch my career in software development quickly. Beyond that, it allowed me to engage in professional growth through hackathons and networking events, expanding my horizons beyond the classroom. Reflecting back, the community of peers and mentors was just as vital as the coursework in shaping my confidence and career path. "

Solitario: "My journey through biomedical science was transformative on both professional and personal levels. The rigorous research training gave me a solid foundation to contribute to innovative healthcare solutions, but it also nurtured my passion for mentoring younger students interested in science careers. Being able to relay the importance of research in disease prevention to the community gives my work a meaningful context beyond the lab. This degree truly shaped my identity as a lifelong learner committed to advancing health equity. "

Other Things You Should Know About Science Degree Programs & Salaries

Which science degrees have the highest starting salaries?

Degrees in computer science, engineering, and applied physics typically offer the highest starting salaries. Graduates in these fields can expect entry-level salaries often above $70,000 annually. In contrast, traditional pure sciences usually start lower but may increase with experience.

Do salaries improve significantly with advanced science degrees?

Yes, advanced degrees like a master's or Ph.D. generally lead to higher salaries. They open doors to specialized roles, research positions, or management, where pay can be substantially greater than bachelor's degree holders.

How does industry choice affect science graduate salaries?

Industry plays a critical role; for example, science graduates working in technology, pharmaceuticals, or energy sectors often earn more than those in academia or environmental non-profits. The variance reflects the profitability and demand within each sector.

Are there geographic differences in science degree salaries?

Salaries for science degree holders vary by location, with urban and technology hubs offering higher wages. States with strong industrial or research centers tend to provide better compensation compared to rural areas.