Biology at University of Dubuque

University of Dubuque's biology graduates start at $31,779—below both the national and Iowa medians for biology majors. More concerning, this places the program in just the 40th percentile among Iowa's 26 biology programs, meaning six in ten Iowa schools see their graduates earning more right out of college. Top programs in the state like Upper Iowa and Grand View are producing graduates who earn $11,000-$12,000 more annually in those crucial first years.

The $27,000 debt load sits right at Iowa's median and is actually favorable compared to the national picture. Still, with first-year earnings trailing peers, that 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates are spending nearly a full year's salary to pay off what they borrowed. The 38% earnings growth to $43,965 by year four shows graduates do gain ground, but they're starting from behind and playing catch-up.

The sample size here is small—fewer than 30 graduates tracked—so individual circumstances can swing these numbers significantly. If you're considering this program, recognize that biology graduates from peer Iowa institutions are typically commanding higher starting salaries. Unless there are compelling reasons specific to University of Dubuque (research opportunities, graduate school placement, specific faculty connections), other in-state options appear to offer stronger early-career earnings potential for similar debt levels.