Biology at Framingham State University

Framingham State's biology program punches well above its weight nationally, placing graduates in the 95th percentile for earnings at $42,472—about $10,000 more than the national median. For a school with an 85% admission rate, that's remarkable performance. The $25,000 debt load is perfectly average, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio that should allow graduates to handle their loans comfortably.

The picture looks less exceptional within Massachusetts, where this program lands at the 60th percentile. You'll pay slightly less debt here than the state median ($25,000 vs. $27,000), but several peer institutions like UMass-Lowell and Salem State deliver an extra $3,000-4,000 in first-year earnings. Still, that gap isn't dramatic enough to dismiss Framingham State, especially given the strong national standing and reasonable debt burden. The in-state tuition advantage likely explains much of the lower debt compared to private alternatives.

For families considering a biology degree, this program offers solid ROI with predictable outcomes. Your child enters a career-ready program that demonstrably places graduates into decent-paying positions, though they shouldn't expect the premium earnings that some other Massachusetts schools achieve. The combination of below-average debt and well-above-average national earnings makes this a financially sound choice, particularly if graduate school is on the horizon.