Biology at Harris-Stowe State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Harris-Stowe State University's biology program shows concerning first-year earnings of just under $32,000—below both the Missouri median ($33,761) and ranking in the 40th percentile statewide. Top Missouri programs like Missouri Western and UMKC are placing graduates into positions paying $8,000-9,000 more annually right out of the gate. With debt of $31,600, graduates face a near 1:1 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning they owe roughly one year's salary.
The university serves a predominantly low-income population (73% Pell recipients), but the economic outcomes lag behind what other Missouri institutions deliver for biology majors. While the debt level isn't extreme compared to national averages, pairing it with below-median earnings creates a tougher financial picture than at most alternatives within the state.
The critical caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, making it statistically unreliable. A few outliers could dramatically skew these numbers. For families considering this program, the small sample means you're essentially betting on outcomes that might look very different for the next cohort. If biology is the goal and cost is a constraint, look closely at Missouri's regional universities where both the data and outcomes appear more solid.
Where Harris-Stowe State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Harris-Stowe State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Harris-Stowe State University graduates earn $32k, placing them in the 48th percentile of all biology bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (41 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harris-Stowe State University | $31,993 | — | $31,600 | 0.99 |
| Missouri Western State University | $40,936 | $44,841 | $24,935 | 0.61 |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | $40,483 | $53,097 | $21,500 | 0.53 |
| Northwest Missouri State University | $37,983 | $47,845 | $26,000 | 0.68 |
| Columbia College | $37,976 | $47,950 | $21,325 | 0.56 |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | $36,732 | $51,753 | $23,188 | 0.63 |
| National Median | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Other Biology Programs in Missouri
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Missouri schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri Western State University Saint Joseph | $9,800 | $40,936 | $24,935 |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City Kansas City | $11,988 | $40,483 | $21,500 |
| Northwest Missouri State University Maryville | $10,181 | $37,983 | $26,000 |
| Columbia College Columbia | $24,326 | $37,976 | $21,325 |
| University of Missouri-Columbia Columbia | $14,130 | $36,732 | $23,188 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Harris-Stowe State University, approximately 73% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 28 graduates with reported earnings and 35 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.