Median Earnings (1yr)
$39,746
93rd percentile
Median Debt
$25,261
1% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.64
Manageable
Sample Size
144
Adequate data

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

University of DelawareOther 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 University of Delaware graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Delaware graduates earn $40k, placing them in the 93th 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 Delaware

Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Delaware (3 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Delaware$39,746$62,360$25,2610.64
Delaware State University$39,327$36,926$26,0000.66
National Median$32,316—$25,0000.77

Other Biology Programs in Delaware

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Delaware schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Delaware State University
Dover
$10,314$39,327$26,000

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 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.