Biology at Ripon College

Ripon College biology graduates start at $43,250—significantly above both the Wisconsin median ($35,752) and national average ($32,316). While this program ranks at the 95th percentile nationally, that 60th percentile position within Wisconsin tells a more nuanced story: this is a strong program, but not exceptional by in-state standards, where Edgewood and Carroll graduates earn notably more.

The debt picture looks unusually favorable at just $27,000, creating a 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio that beats most biology programs. Modest 7% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates are finding stable entry-level positions rather than rapidly advancing careers. For reference, the state's top biology programs show stronger initial earnings trajectories, with Edgewood grads starting above $51,000.

The critical caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates means these numbers could swing considerably year to year. For parents of Wisconsin students, this program offers good value if your child thrives in small college settings and plans graduate school (where that initial salary matters less). But if maximizing first-job earnings is the priority, Carroll or Edgewood might justify their likely higher sticker prices.