Biology at Washington College

Washington College biology graduates start modestly at $34,553 but climb to nearly $50,000 by year four—a 43% jump that outpaces the typical biology trajectory. While first-year earnings land in the 60th percentile among Maryland biology programs, that strong growth suggests graduates are securing positions with real advancement potential, whether in research, healthcare, or related fields. The program performs solidly above both national and state medians, though it trails higher-earning options like University of Maryland Eastern Shore by roughly $3,000 initially.

The financial picture looks manageable with $27,000 in median debt—essentially on par with state and national norms. That 0.78 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one improves significantly as incomes rise, making the debt burden increasingly comfortable. For a biology degree, which often serves as a stepping stone to graduate programs or professional credentials, this trajectory matters more than the starting salary alone.

This program works particularly well for students planning to enter the workforce immediately after graduation rather than heading straight to medical or graduate school. The earnings growth indicates graduates are building marketable skills and securing jobs with advancement tracks, not hitting dead ends. If your child is targeting biology with plans to work before potentially pursuing further education, Washington College delivers reasonable value without the debt load that would complicate those decisions later.