Biology at University of Wisconsin-River Falls

UW-River Falls biology graduates see strong earnings growth, jumping from $34,762 to $44,084 in just four years—a 27% increase that outpaces typical entry-level biology careers. The program performs above the national median and carries manageable debt at $22,937, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 that signals graduates can reasonably handle their loan payments. The first-year salary sits in the 66th percentile nationally, putting it ahead of two-thirds of biology programs nationwide.

The wrinkle: within Wisconsin, this program ranks only at the 40th percentile, trailing the state median and sitting well behind top-performing programs like Edgewood ($51,134) or even sister UW campuses in Oshkosh and Whitewater (both around $38,500). For a Wisconsin resident paying in-state tuition, this gap matters—you're getting solid national value but not necessarily the best biology outcomes the state has to offer.

The strong earnings trajectory suggests this program positions graduates to advance steadily, which could close that gap over time. The moderate debt load and accessible admission profile (82% acceptance rate) make it a viable option for families prioritizing affordability over prestige. If your child can gain admission to a higher-earning UW campus or receives comparable financial aid elsewhere in Wisconsin, those options deserve serious consideration. If River Falls offers the best financial package, the solid national standing and growth pattern make it defensible.