Biology at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UNH's biology program punches well above its weight nationally—graduates earn $45,346 in their first year, crushing the national median of $32,316 and landing in the 95th percentile among all biology programs nationwide. The $27,000 debt load is actually below the national median, creating a favorable 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio that makes this degree financially manageable from day one. Within New Hampshire, however, the picture is more moderate: this program ranks around the 60th percentile statewide and essentially matches what other NH biology programs deliver, suggesting the advantage here is more about New Hampshire biology programs generally outperforming the nation than UNH specifically dominating its local competition.
The earnings trajectory looks promising, with graduates seeing 34% income growth by year four to reach $60,936. For a biology bachelor's—often a stepping stone to graduate school or professional programs—these are respectable figures that indicate strong career momentum. The robust sample size means these aren't flukes; this data reflects consistent outcomes for a large cohort of graduates.
The bottom line: If your student wants to study biology and is considering UNH, the financials strongly support this choice compared to biology programs nationwide. The debt is manageable, earnings start solid, and growth continues. Just recognize you're paying for access to New Hampshire's strong life sciences market rather than for outcomes that dramatically outpace other in-state options.
Where University of New Hampshire-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of New Hampshire-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus graduates earn $45k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all biology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in New Hampshire
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (11 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of New Hampshire-Main Campus | $45,346 | $60,936 | $27,000 | 0.60 |
| University of New Hampshire at Manchester | $45,346 | $60,936 | $27,000 | 0.60 |
| Keene State College | $43,624 | $51,753 | $26,000 | 0.60 |
| Plymouth State University | $40,088 | — | $27,000 | 0.67 |
| Dartmouth College | $36,525 | — | $17,030 | 0.47 |
| Saint Anselm College | $33,820 | — | $27,000 | 0.80 |
| National Median | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Other Biology Programs in New Hampshire
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Hampshire schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of New Hampshire at Manchester Manchester | $15,820 | $45,346 | $27,000 |
| Keene State College Keene | $14,710 | $43,624 | $26,000 |
| Plymouth State University Plymouth | $14,558 | $40,088 | $27,000 |
| Dartmouth College Hanover | $65,739 | $36,525 | $17,030 |
| Saint Anselm College Manchester | $46,810 | $33,820 | $27,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of New Hampshire-Main Campus, approximately 18% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 237 graduates with reported earnings and 275 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.