Analysis
University of Delaware's biology program stands out for what happens after that modest first-year salary. While graduates start at $39,746—unremarkable for a bachelor's degree—they see earnings jump 57% by year four to $62,360. That trajectory matters more than the initial number, especially since the debt load of $25,261 represents less than two-thirds of first-year income, making it manageable even during those leaner early years.
The national rankings tell an interesting story: this program sits in the 93rd percentile for earnings compared to biology programs nationwide, yet only the 60th percentile within Delaware's limited pool of three schools. Translation: University of Delaware biology grads outperform most of the country, but not necessarily their in-state alternatives. With 100+ graduates in the dataset, these aren't fluky numbers—this program consistently produces strong outcomes.
For Delaware residents, the value proposition is solid. You're getting above-average national results with typical debt levels for the field. Biology notoriously produces low early earnings as many graduates pursue additional education or start in research positions, but this program's four-year trajectory shows graduates finding their footing faster than most. If your child is committed to the sciences and planning to work between their bachelor's and any graduate degree, this path minimizes financial stress during those bridge years.
Where University of Delaware Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Delaware 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 Delaware | $39,746 | $62,360 | +57% |
| University of Detroit Mercy | $19,882 | $95,564 | +381% |
| Ohio Dominican University | $38,548 | $83,827 | +117% |
| Seton Hall University | $27,759 | $81,601 | +194% |
| Delaware State University | $39,327 | $36,926 | -6% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Delaware
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Delaware (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16,080 | $39,746 | $62,360 | $25,261 | 0.64 | |
| $10,314 | $39,327 | $36,926 | $26,000 | 0.66 | |
| 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 Delaware, approximately 16% 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 144 graduates with reported earnings and 187 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.