Analysis
UConn-Stamford biology graduates start slow—exceptionally slow—but experience remarkable earnings acceleration that tells an unusual story. That $33,189 first-year salary sits below Connecticut's median for biology programs despite UConn's respected name, and it trails smaller state schools like Eastern Connecticut by 20%. However, the 70% earnings jump to $56,494 by year four significantly outpaces typical biology graduate trajectories and suggests many students successfully transition into higher-paying roles, likely in healthcare or research positions that require experience or additional credentials.
The challenge is that four-year horizon. Biology graduates in Connecticut typically earn $37,450 right out of the gate, meaning UConn-Stamford students spend their early career years at a disadvantage compared to peers at Trinity ($52,000+) or even regional state universities. With $25,000 in debt—standard for biology programs but substantial when paired with that initial $33,000 salary—those first few years require financial discipline. Half of students here receive Pell grants, so that early earnings gap isn't trivial for many families.
This program works best for students committed to careers requiring graduate education or professional development where early earnings matter less than long-term trajectory. The strong four-year outcome validates the UConn credential eventually pays off. But families banking on immediate return should recognize this degree requires patience and likely additional training to reach its full earning potential.
Where University of Connecticut-Stamford Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Connecticut-Stamford 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $33,189 | $56,494 | +70% |
| 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)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,472 | $33,189 | $56,494 | $25,000 | 0.75 | |
| $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 Connecticut-Stamford, approximately 50% 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 180 graduates with reported earnings and 259 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.