Biology at Lipscomb University

Lipscomb's biology program tells two starkly different stories depending on when you measure success. That $20,387 first-year salary—ranking in just the 5th percentile nationally—means graduates are initially earning about 37% less than the typical Tennessee biology major. However, by year four, earnings jump to $52,176, surpassing not only the state median but also outperforming larger programs like MTSU and University of Memphis.

This dramatic 156% earnings growth suggests many graduates are following extended career paths, likely medical school or other advanced degrees where initial earnings stay low during additional training. The $24,375 debt load is reasonable and slightly below state averages, though that 1.20 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one reflects the challenging initial period. For families, this means being prepared to provide financial support beyond graduation—these graduates aren't immediately self-sufficient.

The key question is whether your child plans to pursue graduate education. If they're headed to medical, dental, or veterinary school, Lipscomb's trajectory makes sense and the debt is manageable for that path. But if they're planning to enter the workforce directly with a bachelor's degree, the first few years will be financially difficult, and they'd likely fare better at UT or MTSU where starting salaries are 40-75% higher. This is a program designed for students with a longer educational horizon, not immediate career entry.