Biology at University of Dayton

University of Dayton's biology program presents a classic post-graduate trajectory question: graduates start earning roughly $6,000 below the national median for biology majors, placing them in the 18th percentile nationally. That first-year figure of $26,431 means many graduates are likely pursuing additional education or working in research positions before launching their careers. The $26,000 in debt equals nearly a full year's starting salary—manageable if the earnings picture improves, problematic if it doesn't.

Here's where it gets interesting: by year four, earnings jump to $54,629, more than doubling the initial figure. This 107% growth rate suggests graduates are either completing advanced degrees, moving into specialized roles, or both. Within Ohio, the program sits at the 40th percentile—middle of the pack, but notably behind schools like Ohio Dominican and the Miami University campuses where graduates earn $38,000+ right away. Parents should recognize their student will likely need financial runway for those lean early years.

The investment math works if your child is committed to the long game—medical school, graduate research, or healthcare positions that require additional training. For students wanting immediate career launch, other Ohio biology programs deliver stronger starting salaries without requiring the same initial sacrifice.