Biology at University of Scranton

University of Scranton's biology program starts graduates at a modest $31,251—below both Pennsylvania's state median and the national average—but the trajectory tells a more encouraging story. By year four, earnings jump 64% to $51,113, well above what most biology graduates achieve nationally or in Pennsylvania. This suggests graduates are successfully navigating the challenging path from entry-level lab tech or research assistant roles into better-paying positions, whether in healthcare, industry, or graduate programs.

The $27,000 debt load is remarkably manageable, landing in the 5th percentile nationally (meaning 95% of biology programs saddle students with more debt). That first-year debt ratio of 0.86 isn't alarming given the strong earnings growth that follows—it's the four-year picture that matters for biology majors who often need additional credentials or experience to access higher salaries. The program ranks in the 40th percentile among Pennsylvania's 85 biology programs, placing it solidly middle-of-the-pack in a competitive state market.

For families concerned about ROI, the combination of low debt and strong earnings growth makes this a defensible choice, particularly for students planning to continue to professional or graduate school. The first year requires patience and likely living frugally, but the financial picture improves substantially for those who persist.