Median Earnings (1yr)
$33,863
60th percentile (40th in PA)
Median Debt
$27,000
8% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.80
Manageable
Sample Size
36
Adequate data

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

Kutztown University of PennsylvaniaOther biology programs

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 Kutztown University of Pennsylvania graduates compare to all programs nationally

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania graduates earn $34k, placing them in the 60th percentile of all biology bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania

Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (85 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania$33,863$60,717$27,0000.80
Lehigh University$45,695$52,512$23,1280.51
Holy Family University$44,567—$28,5000.64
Marywood University$43,968$51,631$27,0000.61
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania$43,182$47,690$27,0000.63
DeSales University$42,751$65,437$27,0000.63
National Median$32,316—$25,0000.77

Other Biology Programs in Pennsylvania

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Lehigh University
Bethlehem
$62,180$45,695$23,128
Holy Family University
Philadelphia
$33,968$44,567$28,500
Marywood University
Scranton
$39,570$43,968$27,000
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
East Stroudsburg
$11,036$43,182$27,000
DeSales University
Center Valley
$44,800$42,751$27,000

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.