Biology at University of Hawaii at Manoa

Biology graduates from UH Manoa face a challenging first year, earning just $28,522—substantially below both the state median ($31,948) and the national average ($32,316). This puts the program in the 27th percentile nationally and 40th percentile within Hawaii, where University of Hawaii at Hilo's biology program produces notably stronger outcomes at $35,373. The modest $23,000 debt load helps somewhat, but it still represents nearly a full year's starting salary.

The silver lining here is significant income growth: earnings jump 60% to $45,660 by year four, suggesting graduates eventually find their footing in Hawaii's job market. However, that first-year struggle is real, and parents should plan accordingly—whether that means additional financial support during that initial period or realistic expectations about post-graduation living arrangements in expensive Honolulu.

For families focused on immediate return on investment, this program underdelivers compared to other in-state options. But if your student is committed to biology and values UH Manoa's research opportunities and island location, the trajectory improves considerably after those early years. Just understand you're accepting a rough financial start in exchange for longer-term potential.