Rankings / By State

Best Biology Colleges in Indiana

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 27 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$57,790

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

64%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,049

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college for biology can feel overwhelming, especially in a state like Indiana where there are numerous options. These schools not only offer solid biology programs but also demonstrate strong outcomes for their graduates, making them worth considering as you weigh your options. With average earnings of $57,790 among top biology schools in Indiana, these institutions can set students on a promising career path.

What sets the strongest schools apart is their performance in key areas that matter for biology students: earnings potential, graduation rates, student debt, and overall program quality. The list below reflects these outcomes, helping families see which schools support their students not just academically but financially as well. Pay close attention to how schools balance net price with expected earnings and graduation rates.

For instance, the University of Notre Dame stands out with impressive earnings of $99,980 and a graduation rate of 96%. In contrast, Earlham College has lower earnings of $50,797 and a graduation rate of 68%. This difference highlights the potential trade-offs between choosing a prestigious program and a more affordable option. Keep these factors in mind as you explore the options further.

Key Findings

The University of Notre Dame has the highest earnings at $99,980.

Earlham College has the lowest graduation rate at 68%.

Purdue University-Main Campus offers a net price of $14,600, which is the lowest among the top five.

On average, biology graduates from these schools earn $57,790.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 27

Avg. earnings at 10yr $57,790

Avg. graduation rate 64%

Avg. net price $19,049

Avg. median debt $23,103

How We Ranked

Biology programs in Indiana ranked by outcomes and program concentration

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN

Graduation96%

Earnings$99,980

Net Price$26,780

View full profile →

Earlham College

Richmond, IN

Graduation68%

Earnings$50,797

Net Price$24,714

View full profile →

DePauw University

Greencastle, IN

Graduation77%

Earnings$70,527

Net Price$22,264

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 96% graduation rate, the University of Notre Dame cultivates an environment where students are not just educated but thrive. Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, this private nonprofit institution fosters a tight-knit community that encourages academic excellence and personal growth. The school's commitment to developing leaders is reflected in its strong alumni network and resources that support students through their academic journey.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

Earlham College

Richmond, IN · 670 students · Private nonprofit

Earlham College in Richmond, IN, is home to a tight-knit community of just 670 students. With a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, students here engage deeply with their studies and form lasting relationships, fostering personal and academic growth.

73% accepted 68% graduate $50,797 earnings

Earlham's full profile

DePauw University

Greencastle, IN · 1,905 students · Private nonprofit

DePauw University, a smaller private nonprofit institution in Greencastle, Indiana, offers an intimate learning environment with just under 2,000 students. This close-knit community fosters personal connections between students and faculty, enhancing the educational experience through mentorship and collaboration. DePauw is particularly known for its commitment to liberal arts education, encouraging students to think critically and creatively across disciplines.

57% accepted 77% graduate $70,527 earnings

DePauw's full profile

Taylor University

Upland, IN · 2,025 students · Private nonprofit

Upland, IN, is home to Taylor University, a private nonprofit institution with about 2,025 students. Known for its strong community and emphasis on personal faith, Taylor fosters an environment where students can grow academically and spiritually in a close-knit setting.

74% accepted 75% graduate $52,198 earnings

Taylor's full profile

Goshen College

Goshen, IN · 773 students · Private nonprofit

Goshen College, a private nonprofit in Goshen, IN, is home to around 773 students who benefit from a close-knit community and a commitment to social justice. With a graduation rate of 63% and an 84% acceptance rate, it welcomes a diverse student body and offers an engaging educational experience, often focusing on experiential learning that prepares students for meaningful lives and careers.

84% accepted 63% graduate $51,943 earnings

Goshen's full profile

Wabash College

Crawfordsville, IN · 866 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 77%, Wabash College in Crawfordsville, IN, cultivates a close-knit learning environment that fosters personal growth and academic success. The focus on liberal arts education encourages critical thinking and leadership skills, preparing students for various career paths and personal endeavors.

63% accepted 77% graduate $69,952 earnings

Wabash's full profile

Saint Mary's College

Notre Dame, IN · 1,458 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Mary's College, located near Notre Dame, offers a nurturing environment with a graduation rate of 73%. This private college prioritizes women's education and empowerment, encouraging students to develop their unique voices and pursue their passions in a supportive setting.

76% accepted 73% graduate $59,354 earnings

Butler University

Indianapolis, IN · 4,317 students · Private nonprofit

Butler University in Indianapolis, IN, attracts students with its commitment to a personalized education, highlighted by an 80% graduation rate. The vibrant campus life and diverse opportunities help students build both academic skills and valuable connections, setting them up for success in their careers and beyond.

85% accepted 80% graduate $77,235 earnings

Butler's full profile

University of Evansville

Evansville, IN · 1,539 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Evansville, students benefit from a supportive atmosphere with a graduation rate of 68%. The campus encourages exploration and creativity, making it a good fit for those who thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to engage in hands-on learning experiences.

78% accepted 68% graduate $53,770 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Ball State University

Muncie, IN · 13,988 students · Public

With nearly 14,000 students, Ball State University in Muncie, IN, creates a vibrant campus community where students can thrive academically and socially. The graduation rate sits at 63%, and a solid 86% acceptance rate makes it accessible for many aspiring students. The university emphasizes hands-on learning, which can be a crucial experience for those looking to enter the workforce equipped with practical skills.

86% accepted 63% graduate $51,833 earnings

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso, IN · 2,083 students · Private nonprofit

Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, IN, serves around 2,083 students and has a graduation rate of 69%. Known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, this private nonprofit institution cultivates a well-rounded student experience. With an acceptance rate of 89%, it is an inviting option for those seeking a supportive environment to grow academically and personally.

89% accepted 69% graduate $63,191 earnings

Valparaiso's full profile

#12

Hanover College

Hanover, IN · 1,031 students · Private nonprofit

Hanover College, a private nonprofit institution, offers a close-knit community with just over 1,000 students, fostering strong relationships between faculty and peers. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging critical thinking and creativity, which serves many students well as they prepare for diverse career paths or further education.

84% accepted 65% graduate $53,957 earnings

Hanover's full profile

#13

Oakland City University

Oakland City, IN · 499 students · Private nonprofit

Oakland City University has a graduation rate of 68%, indicating a commitment to student success. With a small student body of 499, the university fosters a close community that can enhance learning and personal growth, leading to median earnings of $43,283 ten years after graduation.

83% accepted 68% graduate $43,283 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#14

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN · 44,503 students · Public

Purdue University, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, draws a diverse student body of over 44,000. Known for its engineering and technology programs, Purdue cultivates a hands-on learning environment that prepares students for real-world challenges. The university's robust research initiatives and partnerships with industries create a dynamic learning experience that complements academic study.

50% accepted 83% graduate $72,424 earnings

Purdue's full profile

#15

Trine University

Angola, IN · 2,324 students · Private nonprofit

Trine University, situated in Angola, Indiana, is home to 2,324 students and prides itself on a supportive educational atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 66% and a median earning of $57,165 ten years after graduation, the university reflects a strong return on investment for dedicated students willing to engage in their studies.

85% accepted 66% graduate $57,165 earnings

Indiana University-Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN · 13,830 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in the heart of Indianapolis, Indiana University-Indianapolis serves over 13,800 students. The university is known for its diverse programs and strong connections to local industries, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and hands-on experiences.

76% accepted 54% graduate $55,198 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#17

Indiana University-Bloomington

Bloomington, IN · 37,806 students · Public

Indiana University Bloomington is home to nearly 38,000 students, offering a vibrant campus life filled with diverse opportunities for personal and academic growth. Known for its strong liberal arts and research programs, the university emphasizes experiential learning and student engagement. The welcoming atmosphere encourages students to explore their interests and build lasting connections with peers and faculty alike.

78% accepted 81% graduate $63,742 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#18

Franklin College

Franklin, IN · 900 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin College, with its tight-knit community of 900 students, boasts a graduation rate of 62%. The school's focus on personalized education and mentorship prepares students for life after college, with median earnings reaching $55,376 ten years post-graduation, reflecting strong career outcomes for its alumni.

70% accepted 62% graduate $55,376 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#19

Indiana University-Southeast

New Albany, IN · 3,170 students · Public

Located in New Albany, IN, Indiana University-Southeast has a student body of about 3,170. The graduation rate of 36% may raise questions, but the supportive community and dedicated faculty work hard to help students succeed. With an 84% acceptance rate, it welcomes a broad range of applicants, making it an accessible choice for many.

84% accepted 36% graduate $47,596 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#20

University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne, IN · 1,567 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne is dedicated to providing a personal and supportive educational experience for its 1,567 students. With a strong emphasis on values and community service, students often find themselves engaged in meaningful work that extends beyond the classroom. The graduation rate of 58% reflects the university's commitment to student success and retention.

96% accepted 58% graduate $55,362 earnings

University's full profile

#21

Indiana University-East

Richmond, IN · 2,589 students · Public

Indiana University-East offers a welcoming environment for its 2,589 students, with a focus on accessibility and student support. The campus culture is designed to foster collaboration and engagement, making it a great choice for those who thrive in a community-oriented setting. With a graduation rate of 42%, there's a clear commitment to helping students succeed in their academic pursuits.

67% accepted 42% graduate $47,156 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#22

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion

Marion, IN · 1,974 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 67%, Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion cultivates a supportive environment that encourages students to succeed. The university's median earnings after ten years stand at $59,986, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared for the job market and can expect solid financial returns on their investment in education.

89% accepted 67% graduate $59,986 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#23

Purdue University Northwest

Hammond, IN · 5,671 students · Public

Purdue University Northwest, located in Hammond, IN, offers a smaller campus experience with around 5,671 students. Known for its practical approach to education, students can expect to gain skills that directly translate to the workforce, preparing them for a variety of career paths.

72% accepted 43% graduate $48,318 earnings

Purdue's full profile

#24

Indiana University-South Bend

South Bend, IN · 3,933 students · Public

At Indiana University-South Bend, the sheer number of students—3,933—creates a diverse learning environment, albeit with a lower graduation rate of 38%. While the median earnings of $44,947 a decade after graduation are respectable, there’s a clear opportunity for improvement in student retention and support services to help more students complete their degrees.

84% accepted 38% graduate $44,947 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#25

Purdue University Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne, IN · 5,484 students · Public

With a diverse student body of 5,484 and an acceptance rate of 84%, Purdue University Fort Wayne welcomes a wide range of students eager to pursue their education. The campus is known for its emphasis on practical learning and community engagement, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, which can be especially beneficial for those seeking hands-on experience in their fields.

84% accepted 34% graduate $45,872 earnings

Purdue's full profile

#26

Holy Cross College

Notre Dame, IN · 639 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, Holy Cross College is a private nonprofit institution with a close-knit community of just 639 students. While it has a 50% graduation rate, the average earnings for graduates ten years post-enrollment reach $50,416, indicating that those who persist can find solid job opportunities in their fields.

75% accepted 50% graduate $50,416 earnings

Marian University

Indianapolis, IN · 2,266 students · Private nonprofit

Marian University in Indianapolis, Indiana, serves a diverse student body of 2,266. With a graduation rate of 64% and a median salary of $58,759 for graduates ten years post-graduation, it's a solid choice for students looking for a blend of academic rigor and community engagement within a private nonprofit setting.

95% accepted 64% graduate $58,759 earnings

Marian's full profile

When comparing schools, one notable pattern emerges: the University of Notre Dame significantly outperforms Earlham College in key metrics. With an impressive graduation rate of 96% and earnings of $99,980, Notre Dame shows that a prestigious program can lead to better outcomes. In contrast, while Earlham College offers a unique campus experience, it has a graduation rate of just 68% and earnings of $50,797—pointing to important trade-offs in your decision-making process.

As you sift through these schools, consider how each institution aligns with your priorities. Think about factors like location, campus culture, and financial aid options. A school with a higher net price might lead to better job opportunities, but it’s crucial to assess whether the investment aligns with your career aspirations and financial situation. Create a list of your top priorities and weigh the data against them.

Ultimately, the decision you make can impact your journey from college to a stable career. With the right biology program, students can find pathways leading to fulfilling careers in healthcare, research, and more. Weigh these outcomes carefully, as one choice could set the tone for your future financial stability and professional satisfaction.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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