Biology at University of Richmond

University of Richmond biology graduates start modestly at $36,300, but their earnings trajectory tells a more compelling story—jumping 46% to nearly $53,000 by year four. This puts them above 75% of biology programs nationally and solidly in the top half for Virginia. Meanwhile, their debt load of $20,064 sits well below both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio that's manageable from day one.

The real question is whether you're comfortable with that first-year salary, which falls short of several Virginia competitors like VMI ($43,797) and Hampden-Sydney ($41,876). Richmond's biology graduates appear to be pursuing paths—likely graduate programs or research positions—that pay off later rather than immediately. The 18% Pell Grant enrollment suggests this school serves a relatively affluent population that may have more flexibility to accept lower initial earnings.

For families who can support their graduate through that first year or two, Richmond's biology program delivers solid value: minimal debt and earnings that eventually outpace most peers. But if your student needs strong immediate income after graduation, other Virginia options provide that faster. The moderate sample size means these patterns could shift, but the fundamentals—low debt and strong growth—point to a program that rewards patience.