Median Earnings (1yr)
$19,944
5th percentile (10th in OH)
Median Debt
$27,000
8% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
1.35
Elevated
Sample Size
19
Limited data

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 programs—well 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 concerning—though 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

The University of FindlayOther biology programs

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 The University of Findlay graduates compare to all programs nationally

The University of Findlay graduates earn $20k, placing them in the 5th 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 Ohio

Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (62 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
The University of Findlay$19,944$51,088$27,0001.35
Ohio Dominican University$38,548$83,827$27,0000.70
Miami University-Hamilton$38,122$55,517$25,3680.67
Miami University-Oxford$38,122$55,517$25,3680.67
Miami University-Middletown$38,122———
Wittenberg University$38,072—$27,0000.71
National Median$32,316—$25,0000.77

Other Biology Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Ohio Dominican University
Columbus
$34,370$38,548$27,000
Miami University-Hamilton
Hamilton
$7,278$38,122$25,368
Miami University-Oxford
Oxford
$17,809$38,122$25,368
Miami University-Middletown
Middletown
$7,278$38,122—
Wittenberg University
Springfield
$44,602$38,072$27,000

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 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.