Analysis
West Texas A&M's biology program starts modestly but demonstrates something unusual: 44% earnings growth between years one and four. While first-year earnings of $28,507 trail both national and Texas medians, four-year earnings of $40,947 actually surpass many higher-ranked programs in the state. That trajectory suggests graduates may be finding their footing in competitive positions—perhaps in healthcare or research—that take time to enter but offer stronger mid-career prospects.
The debt picture reinforces the value story. At $23,125, graduates owe slightly less than typical Texas biology majors, creating a manageable 0.81 debt-to-earnings ratio that improves significantly as salaries climb. This isn't pre-med prep at SMU, where first-year earnings top $39,000. But for students prioritizing accessibility (97% admission rate, 39% on Pell grants), the combination of modest debt and strong earnings momentum offers a realistic path to financial stability.
The critical question is whether your student has the patience for that trajectory. The first year after graduation will be financially tight—below average for biology majors. But if they're willing to invest in building experience or pursuing additional credentials, the four-year mark shows this program can deliver competitive outcomes without the premium price tag of Texas's top-tier schools.
Where West Texas A & M University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How West Texas A & M University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Texas A & M University | $28,507 | $40,947 | +44% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $31,832 | $54,042 | +70% |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | $29,028 | $53,216 | +83% |
| Texas Woman's University | $31,367 | $52,586 | +68% |
| The University of Texas at Dallas | $26,029 | $50,623 | +94% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (70 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 West Texas A & M UniversityCanyon | $9,101 | $28,507 | $40,947 | $23,125 | 0.81 |
 Southern Methodist UniversityDallas | $64,460 | $39,087 | $44,885 | $22,125 | 0.57 |
 University of Mary Hardin-BaylorBelton | $33,150 | $36,637 | — | $27,000 | 0.74 |
 University of Houston-Clear LakeHouston | $7,746 | $35,591 | $50,154 | $19,953 | 0.56 |
 Texas State UniversitySan Marcos | $11,450 | $34,516 | $46,634 | $24,000 | 0.70 |
 Saint Edward's UniversityAustin | $51,384 | $33,597 | $49,126 | $26,000 | 0.77 |
| National Median | — | $32,316 | — | $25,000 | 0.77 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Forensic Science Technicians
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Biological Technicians
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture Technicians
Food Science Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At West Texas A & M University, approximately 39% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 62 graduates with reported earnings and 66 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.