Biology at Aurora University

Aurora University's biology program shows promising long-term growth but starts graduates at a notable earnings disadvantage. While first-year salaries of $32,691 barely edge out the national median, they fall below the Illinois state median and rank in just the 40th percentile among Illinois biology programs. Several public universities in the state—including Northern Illinois and Southern Illinois Edwardsville—place graduates earning $5,000-$11,000 more right out of the gate.

The striking 69% earnings jump from year one to year four suggests graduates eventually find their footing, reaching $55,327 by the fourth year. This trajectory could indicate that Aurora's biology alumni successfully transition into healthcare, research, or graduate programs after an initial period in lower-paying lab or entry-level positions. The debt load of $24,163 is actually slightly below both state and national medians, making the financial picture more manageable than it might first appear.

The major caveat here: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so these numbers could shift substantially with a larger sample. For families considering Aurora, the question becomes whether their student can weather those modest starting salaries—particularly compared to larger Illinois public institutions that offer stronger immediate placement outcomes at potentially lower tuition costs for in-state students.