Biology at Otterbein University

Otterbein's biology program shows troubling first-year outcomes that demand careful scrutiny, despite a small sample size that introduces uncertainty. Graduates earn just $24,341 in their first year—ranking in the bottom 5% nationally and well below Ohio's median of $31,017. Even within Ohio's competitive landscape, this program falls in just the 25th percentile, earning roughly $14,000 less than graduates from nearby Miami University or Ohio Dominican. While the $26,000 debt load matches state norms, it still represents more than a full year's initial salary.

The 69% earnings jump to $41,140 by year four offers some reassurance that graduates eventually find their footing, possibly after completing graduate programs or securing positions that require additional training. However, those first few years—when loan payments begin—will be financially precarious. For context, a biology graduate from this program would struggle to manage standard loan payments on that initial salary.

Given the small sample size, these numbers might not reflect typical outcomes, but they're concerning enough to warrant serious investigation. Before committing, ask Otterbein specifically about their recent biology graduates' career paths and whether most need graduate school to reach viable earnings. Compare financial aid packages carefully against Ohio schools where biology graduates start $7,000-14,000 higher, as that initial earnings gap significantly affects early career financial stability.