Biology at University of North Carolina Wilmington

UNCW's biology program starts modestly but shows genuine momentum, with graduates seeing 32% earnings growth over four years—taking them from $32,925 to $43,383. That four-year figure puts them ahead of several flagship competitors and suggests the degree opens doors that aren't immediately obvious right after graduation.

The debt picture strengthens this program's case. At $22,125, UNCW biology graduates carry about $4,800 less debt than the North Carolina median for biology majors, making the initial salary easier to manage. Among North Carolina's 50 biology programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings—solidly above the state median of $30,692 and climbing toward programs that cost considerably more. The program also benefits from a robust sample size, so these aren't statistical flukes.

For parents wondering about ROI, consider this: your child would graduate with manageable debt and earnings that grow substantially during those critical early career years. While biology majors at Meredith or NC State start higher, UNCW graduates are gaining ground quickly without the heavier debt load. This program represents a sensible middle path—accessible admission, reasonable debt, and earnings trajectory that suggests graduates successfully leverage their degree into career advancement.