Biology at Hardin-Simmons University

Hardin-Simmons biology graduates start at $30,520—slightly below the state median—but climb to $48,295 by year four, a 58% earnings jump that outpaces typical biology programs. While the initial salary sits in just the 39th percentile nationally, the program ranks in the 60th percentile among Texas biology degrees, suggesting it delivers reasonably well within the state's competitive landscape. The $26,500 in typical debt is manageable at 0.87 times first-year earnings, though graduates should expect a lean first year or two.

The trajectory here matters more than the starting point. Many biology grads pursue graduate work or medical school, which could explain the modest initial earnings. For students planning to work immediately after graduation, that sub-$31,000 starting salary will feel tight, especially compared to stronger Texas programs like SMU (which starts graduates near $39,000). However, the debt load remains reasonable and the strong earnings growth suggests graduates find better opportunities with experience.

Given the small sample size (under 30 graduates), these numbers could swing considerably year to year. For a student committed to biology who values HSU's environment and needs a Texas option, this works—just know you'll likely need family support or careful budgeting in those first couple years. The program isn't elite, but the combination of containable debt and solid earnings growth makes it a defensible choice for the right student.