Biology at University of San Diego

USD's Biology program ranks in the 95th percentile for earnings both nationally and within California—a rare achievement that puts it far ahead of typical outcomes. With first-year earnings of $54,223, graduates earn 63% more than the national median for biology majors and substantially outpace even the top California State programs. That performance gap suggests USD's location in San Diego's biotech corridor, combined with strong career services, translates into meaningful employment advantages.

The $25,000 median debt sits at national averages but above California's typical $20,452, likely reflecting USD's private school tuition. However, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 remains manageable—graduates earn more than twice their debt load in their first year. The modest earnings dip from year one to year four (-1%) isn't alarming given the strong starting point, though it suggests many graduates may be in research or lab roles with flatter early-career trajectories rather than rapidly advancing clinical or corporate positions.

For families weighing this investment, the calculus is straightforward: you're paying somewhat more than you would at a UC or CSU, but your child enters the job market with a significant earnings advantage over peers from those systems. If they're interested in San Diego's life sciences industry or medical school preparation, this premium buys tangible results.