Analysis
Kutztown's Biology program shows remarkable earnings growth that transforms what looks like a weak start into a solid mid-career position. While first-year earnings of $33,863 trail the Pennsylvania median by about $1,300, graduates see their income nearly double by year four, reaching $60,717—a 79% jump that suggests many enter graduate programs or complete additional training that significantly boosts their earning power. With debt at exactly the state median of $27,000, the manageable 0.80 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates aren't overleveraged during that crucial early period.
The state context tells an important story here: Kutztown ranks in the 40th percentile among Pennsylvania biology programs initially, but that explosive mid-career growth suggests the program effectively prepares students for advanced opportunities. Compare this to Penn State biology grads who start at similar levels—Kutztown's trajectory appears competitive with programs that have more selective admissions. The 95% admission rate means access isn't a barrier for motivated students who understand biology often requires patience before the financial payoff arrives.
For families comfortable with the typical post-biology path—whether that's graduate school, professional programs, or working up through research or healthcare roles—this represents good value. The debt burden won't constrain those next steps, and the four-year numbers suggest Kutztown graduates land in positions with real earning potential once they've completed their extended training.
Where Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Kutztown University of Pennsylvania graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kutztown University of Pennsylvania | $33,863 | $60,717 | +79% |
| Villanova University | $31,818 | $70,311 | +121% |
| Widener University | $35,142 | $68,495 | +95% |
| Susquehanna University | $36,174 | $66,779 | +85% |
| DeSales University | $42,751 | $65,437 | +53% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (85 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,230 | $33,863 | $60,717 | $27,000 | 0.80 | |
| $62,180 | $45,695 | $52,512 | $23,128 | 0.51 | |
| $33,968 | $44,567 | — | $28,500 | 0.64 | |
| $39,570 | $43,968 | $51,631 | $27,000 | 0.61 | |
| $11,036 | $43,182 | $47,690 | $27,000 | 0.63 | |
| $44,800 | $42,751 | $65,437 | $27,000 | 0.63 | |
| National Median | — | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Forensic Science Technicians
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Biological Technicians
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture Technicians
Food Science Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
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 Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, approximately 31% 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 36 graduates with reported earnings and 60 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.