Analysis
The University of Findlay's biology program shows a stark earnings trajectory that needs careful examination, especially given the small sample size (under 30 graduates). That first-year median of $19,944 places graduates in the bottom 10% both nationally and among Ohio biology programsβwell below Ohio's median of $31,017 and the national benchmark of $32,316. The $27,000 in typical debt compounds this challenge, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.35 in year one.
However, the 156% earnings jump to $51,088 by year four suggests many graduates may be pursuing additional education or training before entering their intended careers. This pattern is common in biology, where many students attend medical, veterinary, or graduate school. If your child plans on healthcare or research careers requiring advanced degrees, that initial earnings dip may be less concerningβthough it does mean managing debt during additional schooling years.
The bottom line: This program works only if you're comfortable with very low initial earnings and your child has a clear path to graduate or professional school. With comparable Ohio programs like Ohio Dominican or Miami University posting first-year earnings nearly double Findlay's, those alternatives deserve serious consideration unless Findlay offers specific research opportunities or professional connections that justify the trade-off. The small sample size also means these numbers could shift significantly year to year.
Where The University of Findlay Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How The University of Findlay graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Findlay | $19,944 | $51,088 | +156% |
| Ohio Dominican University | $38,548 | $83,827 | +117% |
| University of Mount Union | $33,433 | $61,157 | +83% |
| Baldwin Wallace University | $30,986 | $57,681 | +86% |
| Walsh University | $31,250 | $56,105 | +80% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (62 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,646 | $19,944 | $51,088 | $27,000 | 1.35 | |
| $34,370 | $38,548 | $83,827 | $27,000 | 0.70 | |
| $7,278 | $38,122 | $55,517 | $25,368 | 0.67 | |
| $17,809 | $38,122 | $55,517 | $25,368 | 0.67 | |
| $7,278 | $38,122 | β | β | β | |
| $44,602 | $38,072 | β | $27,000 | 0.71 | |
| National Median | β | $32,316 | β | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Forensic Science Technicians
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Biological Technicians
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture Technicians
Food Science Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
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 The University of Findlay, approximately 14% 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 19 graduates with reported earnings and 48 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.