Biology at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Despite UMich's elite 18% admission rate and sky-high test scores, its biology graduates earn just $26,888 in their first year—below both the national median ($32,316) and Michigan's state median ($27,334). More concerning: this ranks in just the 20th percentile nationally and 40th percentile statewide, meaning 80% of biology programs nationwide produce better initial outcomes. Meanwhile, Madonna University grads in the same field start at $46,127, nearly double what UMich biology students earn initially.

The program does show impressive 76% earnings growth to $47,288 by year four, suggesting many graduates pursue additional training or eventually land in competitive positions. The relatively modest $20,000 debt load helps—it's below both state and national averages. But that early earnings gap is substantial for a school of this caliber, and the data suggests UMich biology may be optimized for pre-med or graduate school tracks rather than immediate career placement.

If your child plans to work straight after graduation, this program underperforms less selective Michigan schools. If med school or a PhD is the goal, those low initial earnings may simply reflect gap years or research positions. Know which path you're paying for before committing to this highly competitive admit.