Biology at Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State's Biology program starts graduates at a notably low salary—$32,134 is below both the national and Kansas medians—but the earnings trajectory tells a different story. By year four, graduates reach $51,950, representing 62% growth that lifts them well above typical biology majors nationwide. The relatively modest debt load of $19,550 means graduates can weather that difficult first year without drowning in payments.

The challenge is that initial earning period. At the 40th percentile among Kansas biology programs, Pittsburg State lags behind state flagship options and even regional competitors like Fort Hays State by about $5,000 out of the gate. For families banking on immediate financial independence after graduation, this gap matters. The strong four-year earnings suggest many graduates either pursue additional credentials, move into higher-paying roles with experience, or both—but that first year requires either family support or careful budgeting.

The real question is whether your child has the patience and resources to navigate those early years. If they need to start earning immediately to service debt or support themselves, the initial $32,000 salary creates tight margins. But if they can lean on family support or are headed toward graduate school anyway, the combination of low debt and strong mid-term earnings makes this a reasonable value play—just not one that delivers immediate returns.