Biology at Manhattan University

Manhattan University's biology program shows unusual momentum, with graduates more than doubling the national median in earnings by year four ($52,812 vs. $32,316). While the first-year figure of $35,293 places solidly in the 60th percentile among New York programs, that four-year trajectory suggests graduates are successfully transitioning into higher-paying roles—likely through graduate school, healthcare positions, or research careers that value the degree as a foundation rather than a terminal credential.

The $25,000 debt load sits right at both national and state medians, making this program's value proposition hinge entirely on that earnings growth materializing. The 50% jump from year one to year four is encouraging, but here's the crucial caveat: the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly with just a few outliers. One graduate entering medical school or landing a pharmaceutical role could skew the four-year average considerably.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your child plans to pursue biology as a stepping stone to graduate or professional programs. If so, the debt burden is manageable and the school's outcomes are competitive with state peers. If they're hoping to work immediately after graduation with just the bachelor's degree, that first-year salary requires careful financial planning—though the growth pattern offers reason for optimism about upward mobility.