Biology at University of Houston-Clear Lake

University of Houston-Clear Lake's biology program demonstrates something rare among bachelor's degrees: significant income acceleration after graduation. While starting salaries of $35,591 rank respectably (60th percentile among Texas biology programs), earnings jump 41% by year four to exceed $50,000. That trajectory suggests graduates are successfully transitioning from entry-level lab positions into more specialized roles, likely in Houston's extensive medical and energy sectors.

The debt picture adds to the appeal. At roughly $20,000, graduates carry about $5,500 less than typical Texas biology majors and $5,000 less than the national median. The 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio means you're borrowing just over half your first year's salary—manageable for a science degree where many students continue to graduate school or professional programs. This is particularly noteworthy given that 44% of students receive Pell grants, indicating the school serves a substantial population of lower-income students without loading them with excessive debt.

For parents weighing options, this program punches above its modest admissions profile. While not matching the immediate earnings at schools like SMU or Mary Hardin-Baylor, UHCL's combination of reasonable debt and strong income growth creates a solid foundation—especially for students planning to stay in the Houston area, where the program's industry connections appear to pay dividends within a few years of graduation.