Biology at University of Nevada-Las Vegas

UNLV biology graduates face a challenging first year, earning just $24,989—well below both the national median ($32,316) and Nevada's state average ($28,205). While this program ranks at the 40th percentile within Nevada, that's misleading context given there are only four biology programs in the state. More telling: nationally, it sits in the bottom 12th percentile for first-year earnings.

The dramatic turnaround comes by year four, when earnings more than double to $52,145. That 109% growth rate suggests many graduates are successfully transitioning into healthcare, graduate programs, or related careers where biology degrees become valuable. The relatively modest debt load of $21,376 helps—it's below both state and national medians, making that difficult first year more financially survivable than at pricier institutions.

Here's the bottom line: if your child plans to pursue medical school, graduate education, or specialized healthcare roles, UNLV's biology program offers an affordable launching pad. But if the plan is to work immediately after graduation with just a bachelor's degree, understand that year one will likely mean relying on family support or second jobs. The strong earnings growth suggests most graduates eventually find their footing, but that initial period requires either a financial cushion or a clear plan for advanced training that justifies the temporary earnings sacrifice.