Biology at Northeastern University

Northeastern's biology program stands out nationally—graduates earn $45,494 in their first year, placing them in the 95th percentile among all biology programs nationwide. That's $13,000 above the national median, a meaningful premium for a field that typically sees modest starting salaries. The 61% earnings jump by year four suggests strong career momentum, likely driven by Northeastern's co-op program giving students practical experience that translates into better opportunities.

The Massachusetts context tells a more nuanced story. While this program crushes national benchmarks, it lands at the 60th percentile among Bay State biology programs—solidly middle of the pack for a state with unusually strong life sciences employment. Top Massachusetts programs like Worcester Polytechnic and UMass Lowell edge ahead by $1,000-$6,000 in starting salaries, though Northeastern's long-term trajectory appears stronger. The $25,000 median debt sits right at national norms and actually runs lower than the state median, making the debt burden manageable given the earnings trajectory.

The 6% admission rate signals this is an option only for exceptional students, but those who get in find genuine value. Biology graduates often struggle with low starting salaries regardless of school prestige, yet Northeastern delivers earnings that work with the debt load from day one. For families weighing whether elite admissions selectivity translates to career outcomes, this program demonstrates tangible returns in a field where many graduates founder.