Analysis
A biology degree that costs $27,000 and leads to estimated first-year earnings of $37,450—roughly the state average—creates a manageable financial starting point, though the path forward matters considerably. Similar programs in Connecticut suggest graduates begin earning near the state median for biology majors, which itself sits above the national benchmark. The debt load ranks exceptionally low nationally (5th percentile), meaning students here borrow less than 95% of biology programs nationwide.
The real story emerges by year four, when reported earnings jump to nearly $60,000—a significant increase that suggests many graduates either pursue additional credentials or move into better-paying positions after gaining experience. This trajectory is common in biology, where entry-level lab or research assistant roles often give way to specialized positions, though it does mean planning for several lean early years. Comparable Connecticut programs show a wide range, from Trinity's $52,000 first-year mark down to the high $30,000s, with University of Bridgeport tracking closer to the middle-to-lower tier.
The combination of below-average debt and a clear earnings progression makes this financially viable, but parents should recognize their child will likely need financial support or supplemental income during those first few years. If graduate school is part of the plan—as it is for many biology majors heading toward research or healthcare—keeping undergraduate debt this low becomes particularly strategic.
Where University of Bridgeport Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Bridgeport | — | $59,936 | — |
| Quinnipiac University | $44,657 | $56,734 | +27% |
| University of Connecticut | $33,189 | $56,494 | +70% |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $33,189 | $56,494 | +70% |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $33,189 | $56,494 | +70% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (21 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,760 | $37,450* | $59,936 | $27,000 | — | |
| $67,420 | $52,179* | — | $26,190 | 0.50 | |
| $53,090 | $44,657* | $56,734 | $27,000 | 0.60 | |
| $12,828 | $41,973* | $51,529 | $24,770 | 0.59 | |
| $64,812 | $41,067* | $51,800 | $23,045 | 0.56 | |
| $13,292 | $39,977* | $53,040 | $25,448 | 0.64 | |
| National Median | — | $32,316* | — | $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 University of Bridgeport, approximately 52% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 15 similar programs in CT. Actual outcomes may vary.