Biology at Monmouth University

Monmouth's biology program starts with a notably weak first year—$26,445 puts it in the bottom quarter of both national and New Jersey biology programs. Among the 26 schools offering this degree in New Jersey, Monmouth trails the state median by nearly $6,000, and lags far behind state leaders like Centenary ($44,312) and William Paterson ($42,492).

The dramatic turnaround by year four is the story here. Earnings jump 129% to $60,574, ultimately surpassing nearly every other New Jersey biology program by a significant margin. This suggests graduates either pursue advanced credentials (nursing, physician assistant, or graduate school) or enter career paths with delayed but substantial payoffs. The relatively low debt load of $27,000 provides flexibility during this transition period, though that first year at roughly minimum wage levels means living lean initially.

For families comfortable with a long-game strategy, the numbers eventually work. But understand what you're signing up for: your graduate will likely need financial support or careful budgeting through their early twenties while pursuing whatever credentials or experience unlock those higher earnings. If your student needs immediate financial independence after graduation, Monmouth's biology program will be a difficult path.