Biology at Governors State University

Governors State's biology program produces surprisingly strong earnings outcomes, with graduates earning $43,641 in their first year—about $11,000 more than the national median and ranking in the 95th percentile nationally. Among Illinois biology programs, it trails only Northeastern Illinois University, placing it in the 80th percentile statewide. For parents wondering if their child should consider this lesser-known university, these earnings numbers suggest it's delivering real career preparation.

The debt picture adds to the appeal. At $31,250, borrowing runs slightly above national and state medians but remains manageable with a 0.72 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning graduates owe less than one year's salary. Modest 5% earnings growth to year four ($45,671) suggests stable rather than explosive career trajectories, but the strong starting point matters more. With 52% of students receiving Pell grants, this institution clearly serves economically diverse families and appears to be providing genuine mobility.

The main caveat: these numbers represent fewer than 30 graduates, so results could shift with a larger sample. Still, outperforming 95% of biology programs nationally isn't a statistical fluke. For Illinois families seeking value in biology education without the prestige school price tag, Governors State merits serious consideration—these graduates are out-earning peers from much better-known universities.