Biology at Texas Woman's University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Texas Woman's University biology graduates experience dramatic salary growth, jumping from $31,367 in the first year to $52,586 by year four—a 68% increase that substantially outpaces typical biology trajectories. While that initial salary sits below the national median, it's actually above Texas's median for biology programs, placing this program in the 60th percentile statewide. By year four, these graduates are earning significantly more than what most biology majors make even at top Texas programs.
The $22,274 in median debt is manageable, roughly equivalent to seven months of earnings by year four. The challenging first year—where graduates might work in labs or research positions before moving into better-paying roles—appears temporary for most students. This pattern suggests the program either provides strong networking opportunities or credentials that take time to translate into earnings.
For families choosing an affordable in-state option, TWU's biology program delivers solid long-term value despite the slow start. Parents should ensure their student can navigate that first year financially, perhaps through living at home or supplemental income. But the trajectory afterward suggests graduates find their footing in healthcare, research, or graduate school paths that ultimately pay off. The 95% admission rate makes this accessible to most applicants seeking a biology degree with legitimate earning potential.
Where Texas Woman's University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Texas Woman's University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Texas Woman's University graduates earn $31k, placing them in the 44th percentile of all biology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (70 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Woman's University | $31,367 | $52,586 | $22,274 | 0.71 |
| Southern Methodist University | $39,087 | $44,885 | $22,125 | 0.57 |
| University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | $36,637 | — | $27,000 | 0.74 |
| University of Houston-Clear Lake | $35,591 | $50,154 | $19,953 | 0.56 |
| Texas State University | $34,516 | $46,634 | $24,000 | 0.70 |
| Saint Edward's University | $33,597 | $49,126 | $26,000 | 0.77 |
| National Median | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Other Biology Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Methodist University Dallas | $64,460 | $39,087 | $22,125 |
| University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Belton | $33,150 | $36,637 | $27,000 |
| University of Houston-Clear Lake Houston | $7,746 | $35,591 | $19,953 |
| Texas State University San Marcos | $11,450 | $34,516 | $24,000 |
| Saint Edward's University Austin | $51,384 | $33,597 | $26,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Texas Woman's University, approximately 40% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 87 graduates with reported earnings and 106 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.