Biology at Canisius University

The small sample size here demands caution, but the trajectory tells an interesting story about delayed returns. Canisius biology graduates start at $29,397—below both New York's median ($32,738) and the national benchmark—but earnings nearly double by year four to $55,653, significantly outpacing the state median. This 89% growth rate suggests many graduates pursue additional training or credentials before their careers gain traction, whether that's graduate school, medical programs, or specialized certifications.

At $26,254 in debt, the financial burden sits right at typical levels for biology programs, making that first-year salary the real concern. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89 means graduates owe nearly a full year's salary initially, though this becomes far more manageable as earnings climb. Among New York's 92 biology programs, Canisius lands at the 40th percentile—firmly middle-of-the-pack and well behind elite options like Barnard or Hamilton, but the four-year earnings eventually surpass many of those higher-ranked programs.

For families, this means planning for a financially tight first few years post-graduation. If your student is committed to a biology-related career path that requires graduate work or professional development, this program can work—but only if you can support them through that initial low-earning period. Without additional credentials or career pivots, that starting salary simply won't cut it in today's economy.