Biology at Adelphi University

Adelphi's biology program shows disappointing initial outcomes but noteworthy long-term growth—though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) makes it hard to know if these patterns will hold. Starting earnings of $30,101 fall below both New York's median ($32,738) and the national average, placing this program in the 40th percentile statewide. That first-year figure is particularly concerning given that graduates carry $25,000 in debt, creating a year-one debt burden of 83% of earnings.

The trajectory improves significantly over time, with earnings jumping 69% to reach $50,918 by year four. That's a stronger growth curve than many biology programs typically show and suggests graduates may be moving into research positions, graduate school-related work, or clinical roles that value experience. However, this positive trend should be viewed cautiously—with fewer than 30 graduates tracked, a handful of high earners could be skewing the numbers upward.

For parents considering this $25,000 investment, the question is whether waiting four years for competitive earnings makes sense when stronger New York programs (including several CUNY schools with lower tuition) deliver better outcomes from day one. Unless your child has specific reasons to choose Adelphi—particular research opportunities, location preference, or merit aid that significantly reduces the debt load—the early earnings gap is hard to justify, especially when the recovery story relies on such limited data.