Biology at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University's biology program launches graduates into careers with below-average starting salaries ($34,620), but the trajectory tells a more optimistic story. By year four, earnings jump 37% to $47,478—placing graduates comfortably above both national and Missouri medians for the field. Among Missouri's 41 biology programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, though it trails flagship programs like Mizzou and regional universities like Missouri Western by notable margins.

The $25,000 debt load is squarely average for biology degrees nationwide, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72 in that challenging first year. What matters here is whether your student can weather those initial lean years—likely in lab tech positions, healthcare support roles, or graduate school prep—knowing that mid-career prospects improve substantially. The moderate sample size suggests reasonably stable data, though individual outcomes will vary.

For families comfortable with a slower financial start in exchange for solid mid-term growth, this program offers reasonable value. However, if your student needs stronger immediate earnings to justify the investment, Missouri's public universities deliver better first-year outcomes at similar or lower debt levels. Consider whether your child plans graduate school (where the pedigree may matter more) or direct entry to the workforce (where those starting salary gaps compound).