Biology at Dominican University

Dominican University's biology program shows an unusual earnings trajectory that requires careful consideration. New graduates earn just $26,015—about $7,000 below the Illinois median and in the bottom quarter of state programs. However, by year four, earnings jump to $48,438, placing graduates well above both state and national medians. This 86% increase suggests many graduates pursue additional training or credentialing before their careers fully launch.

The challenge is surviving those early years. With $25,117 in debt and first-year earnings barely above poverty wages, recent graduates face real financial strain during what appears to be an extended training period. Nearly half of students receive Pell grants, meaning many come from families with limited ability to subsidize these lean early years. Compare this to top Illinois programs like Governors State, where biology graduates earn $44,000 right away without the waiting period.

This program makes sense for students planning graduate school or professional programs where the biology degree is a stepping stone—the debt load is manageable for that path. But families should plan for those difficult first few years when income won't cover both debt payments and living expenses. Students need either parental support, additional part-time work, or income-driven repayment plans to bridge the gap until their careers accelerate.