Biology at Kent State University at Kent

Kent State's biology program starts graduates at just over $30,000—below both state and national averages for the major—but the story improves significantly over time. That 44% earnings jump to $43,348 by year four suggests graduates are successfully transitioning into higher-paying roles, whether in research, healthcare settings, or graduate programs. With $25,000 in debt (exactly the national median), the initial debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.83 isn't ideal, but it becomes much more manageable as those early-career earnings climb.

The catch is that first year out of college. Among Ohio's 62 biology programs, this one lands at the 40th percentile—meaning six out of ten state programs post higher starting salaries. Schools like Ohio Dominican and the Miami University campuses are launching graduates $8,000 higher right out of the gate. For students planning to work immediately after graduation or who need to start repaying loans quickly, that gap matters. However, if your child is using this degree as a stepping stone to medical school, graduate research, or certification programs where starting salary is less critical, the trajectory matters more than the starting point.

The value proposition here hinges on patience and next steps. If your child will pursue additional training or can afford a modest first year while building experience, Kent State's biology program offers reasonable debt and strong earnings growth. For those needing immediate financial stability post-graduation, the higher-earning Ohio alternatives warrant consideration.