Biology at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

UW-Milwaukee's biology program outperforms most national competitors while keeping debt remarkably low—graduating students carry just $27,000, less than 95% of biology programs nationwide. Starting at $36,215, graduates earn more than three-quarters of their peers nationally, though they trail higher-performing Wisconsin schools like Edgewood ($51,134) and Ripon ($43,250) by substantial margins. With an 88% admission rate and accessible tuition structure, this program offers solid value for students who need an affordable path into STEM careers.

The math works in students' favor here: a 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than they'll earn in their first year—unusual for biology degrees, which often saddle students with heavier debt loads relative to modest starting salaries. Earnings climb 16% to nearly $42,000 by year four, suggesting graduates find stable footing in labs, healthcare settings, or graduate school preparation roles. The robust sample size (100+ graduates) makes these figures reliable.

For families weighing biology programs in Wisconsin, UW-Milwaukee sits in the middle tier for earnings but at the top for financial accessibility. If your child plans to pursue graduate or professional school—common for biology majors—graduating with minimal debt provides crucial flexibility. Students capable of gaining admission to Edgewood or Ripon might earn $10,000+ more annually, but they'll likely pay significantly higher tuition upfront. For budget-conscious families, UW-Milwaukee delivers respectable outcomes without the financial strain.