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
Earnings Distribution
How University of New Hampshire-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of New Hampshire-Main Campus | $45,346 | $60,936 | +34% |
| University of Detroit Mercy | $19,882 | $95,564 | +381% |
| Ohio Dominican University | $38,548 | $83,827 | +117% |
| University of New Hampshire at Manchester | $45,346 | $60,936 | +34% |
| Keene State College | $43,624 | $51,753 | +19% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Hampshire
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $19,112 | $45,346 | $60,936 | $27,000 | 0.60 | |
| $15,820 | $45,346 | $60,936 | $27,000 | 0.60 | |
| $14,710 | $43,624 | $51,753 | $26,000 | 0.60 | |
| $14,558 | $40,088 | — | $27,000 | 0.67 | |
| $65,739 | $36,525 | — | $17,030 | 0.47 | |
| $46,810 | $33,820 | — | $27,000 | 0.80 | |
| National Median | — | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Forensic Science Technicians
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Biological Technicians
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture Technicians
Food Science Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
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.