Biology at McKendree University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
McKendree's biology program falls below the middle of the pack in Illinois, with first-year earnings of $31,678 landing at the 40th percentile statewide—roughly $1,200 less than the state median and significantly behind top performers like Governors State ($43,641) and Northeastern Illinois ($40,392). However, the $26,833 debt burden sits right at the state average, resulting in a manageable 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio that compares favorably to many biology programs nationally.
The real story here is trajectory versus value. While starting salaries lag Illinois competitors, biology is often a stepping stone to graduate programs in healthcare or research where credentials matter more than undergraduate pedigree. McKendree's 64% admission rate and moderate pricing (reflected in that below-average debt) make it accessible for students who plan to continue their education. The concerning element is performing below expectations in a state with 50 biology programs—this isn't a standout choice for students who'll enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
With fewer than 30 graduates in the sample, treat these numbers as directional rather than definitive. For pre-med or pre-PA students focused on building a strong foundation affordably, McKendree could work. For students planning to work with just a bachelor's, Illinois offers multiple programs with 20-35% higher starting salaries at similar debt levels.
Where McKendree University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
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 McKendree University graduates compare to all programs nationally
McKendree University graduates earn $32k, placing them in the 46th percentile of all biology bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (50 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McKendree University | $31,678 | — | $26,833 | 0.85 |
| Governors State University | $43,641 | $45,671 | $31,250 | 0.72 |
| Northeastern Illinois University | $40,392 | $52,784 | $14,031 | 0.35 |
| Northern Illinois University | $38,137 | $48,556 | $23,630 | 0.62 |
| Southern Illinois University Edwardsville | $38,067 | $50,151 | $22,396 | 0.59 |
| Saint Xavier University | $37,977 | $46,068 | $26,939 | 0.71 |
| National Median | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Other Biology Programs in Illinois
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Illinois schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governors State University University Park | $11,320 | $43,641 | $31,250 |
| Northeastern Illinois University Chicago | $12,383 | $40,392 | $14,031 |
| Northern Illinois University Dekalb | $12,700 | $38,137 | $23,630 |
| Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville | $12,922 | $38,067 | $22,396 |
| Saint Xavier University Chicago | $36,840 | $37,977 | $26,939 |
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 McKendree University, approximately 29% 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 17 graduates with reported earnings and 28 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.