Biology at Maryville University of Saint Louis

The strongest biology programs in Missouri generate starting salaries near $40,000—$11,000 more than Maryville's $29,703 first-year median. That gap is significant when you're carrying $26,000 in debt. While earnings do jump substantially by year four to nearly $53,000, that initial year matters: it's when loan payments begin, and it's when graduates decide whether to pursue graduate school or stay in their field. Ranking in just the 40th percentile among Missouri biology programs suggests this degree isn't opening doors as effectively as alternatives at schools like Missouri Western or even Mizzou.

The debt load itself isn't alarming—it's typical for Missouri biology degrees—but the combination of below-average starting earnings and moderate debt creates a tighter financial situation than necessary. Biology majors often need graduate degrees for career advancement, making that early earning power crucial for building financial stability before additional schooling.

The caveat here is meaningful: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary widely. However, with admission rates at 94% and stronger biology programs available across Missouri at comparable or lower cost, parents should question whether this particular path offers enough advantage. If your child is set on Maryville for other reasons, understand they'll likely start behind peers from neighboring schools, even if earnings eventually catch up.