Biology at Mercyhurst University

Mercyhurst's biology program shows an unusual earnings trajectory that demands attention to both timing and sample size. That $29,167 first-year salary ranks in just the 25th percentile among Pennsylvania biology programs—about $6,000 below the state median of $35,122. When your graduate initially earns 17% less than peers at other Pennsylvania schools, that's a real gap that affects everything from loan payments to building financial independence.

The dramatic upside comes four years out, when earnings more than double to $62,656. This suggests graduates may be entering fields like medical or graduate school that require additional training before higher earnings kick in. The $27,000 debt load is manageable and exactly matches Pennsylvania's median, making this pattern less risky than it might appear. However, these numbers come from fewer than 30 graduates, meaning a handful of students pursuing very different career paths could be skewing the picture considerably.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your student plans to pursue advanced degrees or careers with delayed earnings potential. If they're heading straight into entry-level lab or research positions, that weak first-year showing is concerning. If they're pre-med or planning graduate school, the modest debt and strong four-year outcomes look more favorable—but verify this pattern with the school's career office before banking on it.