Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Biology

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$89,736

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

91%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$21,274

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college that prioritizes social mobility can be a game changer, especially for students interested in biology and biomedical programs. With median earnings for biology graduates significantly varying, it’s essential to consider how institutions support student success and career outcomes.

The schools on this list excel in critical areas like graduation rates, average earnings, and manageable debt levels. For instance, a high graduation rate often indicates strong support systems, while earnings data reflects the potential return on investment for students. These factors help paint a picture of each school's ability to foster upward mobility for its graduates.

Take Princeton and Stanford, for example. Princeton graduates in biology see an average earning of $110,066, while Stanford’s graduates earn even more at $124,080. However, Stanford also has a higher average net price at $13,807 compared to Princeton's $6,128. This illustrates not only the financial trade-offs but also the varying opportunities each school presents.

Key Findings

Princeton graduates earn an average of $110,066, with a 97% graduation rate.

Stanford graduates have the highest average earnings at $124,080, but face a higher net price of $13,807.

MIT students report an average debt of $14,768, one of the highest among the top schools.

Johns Hopkins graduates earn $87,555, showing a trade-off in earnings compared to peers.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $89,736

Avg. graduation rate 91%

Avg. net price $21,274

Avg. median debt $15,404

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Biology & Biomedical

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

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

Graduation94%

Earnings$87,555

Net Price$18,809

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Princeton University consistently cultivates an environment where students can thrive academically and socially. Located in the charming town of Princeton, NJ, this private nonprofit institution fosters a close-knit community that encourages collaboration and intellectual engagement among its 5,709 students.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, MD, is a powerhouse for research and healthcare education. With a graduation rate of 94% among its 5,693 students, the university emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, allowing students to engage with real-world challenges and make tangible impacts in their fields.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is known for its innovative spirit and interdisciplinary approach to education. Nestled in California's Silicon Valley, the university attracts a diverse group of thinkers and creators, with 7,554 students shaping their futures in a dynamic, resource-rich environment.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), students dive into a world of cutting-edge research and innovation. With a graduation rate of 96% among its 4,535 students, MIT is a hub for those passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, surrounded by a community that thrives on inquiry and exploration.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University, situated in Houston, Texas, is home to a close-knit community of approximately 4,776 students. The university's impressive 95% graduation rate reflects its supportive environment, where students can thrive academically and personally. Small class sizes encourage interaction and engagement, allowing students to make meaningful connections with faculty and peers alike.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania showcases its commitment to student success. Located in Philadelphia, this vibrant campus attracts a diverse student body of about 10,650 individuals, creating a rich community for collaboration and learning. The school’s rigorous academic programs and strong connections to industries can lead to impressive career opportunities for its graduates.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago has a reputation for academic rigor and critical thinking, attracting students who are intellectually curious and eager to engage in deep discussions. With a graduation rate of 95%, it reflects a strong commitment to supporting its students through challenging coursework and research opportunities. The vibrant city of Chicago adds an urban backdrop, rich with cultural and professional experiences.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, attracts students from all over the globe with its storied history and rich academic offerings. A 97% graduation rate demonstrates Harvard's dedication to student success, while its expansive resources and alumni network provide graduates with vast opportunities in their careers. The vibrant campus life and intellectual rigor cultivate an environment where students can thrive.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University in Providence, RI, invites students to explore their passions in a unique open curriculum environment. Its impressive graduation rate of 96% and median earnings of $93,487 at 10 years demonstrate the strong outcomes for graduates, which can be a significant draw for those seeking an academic experience that encourages independence and creativity.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Ithaca, NY, Cornell University is not just one of the largest Ivy League schools but also brings a diverse range of programs and a commitment to research. With a graduation rate of 95% and median earnings of $104,043 after ten years, Cornell graduates are well-equipped to pursue lucrative careers in various fields, from agriculture to engineering.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#11

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, located in Wellesley, MA, is known for empowering women through rigorous academic programs and a supportive environment. With a graduation rate of 91% and a student body of around 2,300, Wellesley cultivates a strong sense of community and collaboration among its students, encouraging them to become leaders in their fields.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

Chapel Hill, known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs, is home to the University of North Carolina. With a 92% graduation rate, students here are well-prepared for the workforce, boasting median earnings of $72,200 a decade after graduation, which speaks to the university's commitment to student success.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Brunswick, ME, Bowdoin College boasts a strong commitment to academic excellence, reflected in its 95% graduation rate. With just under 1,900 students, Bowdoin encourages close relationships among peers and professors, fostering an environment where collaboration and intellectual curiosity thrive.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#14

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Duke University in Durham, NC, has a strong track record of helping students succeed. The median earnings of $97,800 at 10 years post-graduation reflect the value of a Duke degree in the job market, making it a compelling choice for students aiming for high-impact careers.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, is home to a vibrant campus life and a diverse student body of over 7,200. With a 93% graduation rate, it emphasizes academic rigor while also encouraging students to engage in extracurricular activities and community service, making for a well-rounded college experience.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#16

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College in Claremont, California, is a small liberal arts college that emphasizes a close-knit community and rigorous academics. With a graduation rate of 93%, students can expect a supportive environment that fosters academic success. Graduates see median earnings of $77,779 ten years after graduation, paving the way for promising career opportunities in various fields.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#17

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Williams College is known for its strong academic support and commitment to student success. The small campus in Williamstown, MA, hosts just over 2,000 students, fostering a close-knit community where students receive personalized attention from faculty and peers alike.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#18

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Amherst College demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in a picturesque Massachusetts town, this small liberal arts college offers an intimate learning environment, encouraging close relationships between students and faculty, which can enhance the educational experience.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#19

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Graduating an impressive 94% of its students, Washington University in St. Louis is known for its rigorous academics and a vibrant campus life. The university's students find themselves thriving in a supportive environment, with median earnings of $86,182 ten years after graduation, reflecting the strong career outcomes for alumni.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#20

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia Tech is a hub for innovation and technology. With a graduation rate of 93%, students here not only finish their degrees but also thrive in high-demand fields, reflected in a median earning of $102,772 ten years after graduation.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#21

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University in New Haven is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, students here are not only successful in their studies but also enjoy median earnings of $100,533 within a decade of graduation, reflecting the value of a Yale degree in the job market.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida, nestled in Gainesville, caters to a large student body of over 35,000. With a graduation rate of 91%, students can expect a solid education that leads to a median earning of $71,588 after ten years, highlighting the university's strong return on investment.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#23

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University attracts students with its unique blend of research opportunities and a strong sense of community. The 96% graduation rate reflects the dedication of both faculty and students, while alumni enjoy median earnings of $89,363 ten years post-graduation, indicating solid career pathways for graduates.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#24

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Atlanta, GA, Emory University is known for its commitment to academic excellence and research opportunities, serving a diverse student body of 7,298. With a graduation rate of 91%, students can expect robust support throughout their college journey, and median earnings of $80,137 at ten years highlight the strong career prospects for graduates. This environment fosters both intellectual curiosity and social engagement, appealing to a wide range of students.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on liberal arts education, Davidson College cultivates critical thinking and leadership skills in its 1,867 students. The school’s impressive 91% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success, and the median earnings of $81,400 at ten years post-graduation show that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#26

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90%, Haverford College supports students in achieving their academic goals and fosters a close-knit community. Located in Pennsylvania, this private institution emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts education, encouraging students to engage deeply in their studies and make meaningful connections with peers and professors alike.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#27

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College is situated in the vibrant heart of New York City, where students benefit from an urban education experience. Despite a graduation rate of 59%, the college's median earnings of $63,163 a decade after graduation indicate that many graduates find their footing in competitive job markets, underscoring the value of a degree from Hunter.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation in the heart of New York City, attracting a diverse student body of nearly 9,000. With a graduation rate of 96%, Columbia emphasizes academic rigor and a unique blend of resources that come from being located in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#29

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College, nestled in the picturesque town of Hanover, is not just about beautiful surroundings; it also boasts strong academic rigor, with a 96% graduation rate. The median earnings of its graduates reach $97,434 just a decade after leaving campus, showcasing the value of a Dartmouth education in the job market.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#30

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#31

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University supports a large student body of 32,952, with an impressive graduation rate of 82%. The median earnings of $75,790 ten years post-graduation suggest that students are well-prepared for the workforce, benefitting from the university's emphasis on both academic and personal development in a supportive community environment.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#32

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Hamilton, NY, Colgate University emphasizes a rigorous academic experience backed by a 91% graduation rate. The school nurtures a vibrant community where students engage in diverse activities, enhancing their learning experience and preparing them for future challenges. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $85,139 at ten years, indicating a strong return on investment in their education.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#33

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College, with its intimate setting and a tight-knit community of just 1,760 students, fosters deep academic connections. The institution's high graduation rate of 90% speaks to its robust support systems, helping students thrive both in and out of the classroom while cultivating a rich social experience.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Waterville, ME, Colby College champions a liberal arts education that prepares its 2,407 students for a fast-changing world. An impressive 89% graduation rate reflects the college's dedication to student achievement, while graduates see median earnings of $80,490 at ten years, demonstrating a solid value for their education. The close-knit community encourages collaboration and personal growth, allowing students to thrive both socially and academically.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College is a small liberal arts college in California, known for its focus on economics and government. With a 93% graduation rate, students here are encouraged to engage in a rigorous academic experience within a tight-knit community, making it a standout for those who thrive in smaller settings where personal attention is paramount.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#36

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

With an acceptance rate of just 3%, the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA, is a dream school for many aspiring scientists and engineers. The median earnings of $128,566 at 10 years post-graduation highlight the strong career prospects for graduates, underscoring the school’s emphasis on cutting-edge research and a rigorous curriculum.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#37

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#38

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#40

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University stands out for its impressive graduation rate of 93%, reflecting a supportive academic environment known for innovation and excellence. With a strong emphasis on technology and the arts, students here are encouraged to pursue interdisciplinary studies, preparing them for a dynamic job market.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#42

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University, with a graduation rate of 94%, fosters a tight-knit community in Lexington, Virginia. This small liberal arts institution emphasizes a balance of academic achievement and character development, attracting students who value a comprehensive education in a supportive environment.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#43

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

At Boston College, students enjoy a high graduation rate of 91%, reflecting a strong commitment to academic support and community engagement. The median earnings of $103,937 after ten years highlight the value of a degree from this private nonprofit institution, positioning graduates well for successful careers in various fields.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#44

University of Notre Dame

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

With a 96% graduation rate, the University of Notre Dame clearly supports its students in achieving their degrees. Nestled in the heart of Indiana, this private nonprofit school offers a vibrant campus culture along with strong academic programs that emphasize ethics and leadership.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#45

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., is renowned for its strong academic programs and global perspective. Achieving a graduation rate of 95%, this private university cultivates a diverse and engaged student body, drawing those passionate about public service, international relations, and law.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#47

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#48

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#49

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#50

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

When looking at social mobility data, one trend stands out: the earnings gap between institutions. For example, while Johns Hopkins graduates earn an average of $87,555, MIT graduates pull in an impressive $143,372. This stark difference highlights how certain schools can propel students further along their career paths, despite varying costs and debt levels.

Now that you’ve scrolled through this list, consider how each school's financial data aligns with your personal goals. Weigh factors like location, program offerings, and campus culture against the financial implications of attending. For instance, if managing debt is a priority, Princeton’s lower net price may be appealing despite its slightly lower earnings compared to Stanford.

In the end, this data underscores a critical reality: the right college choice can significantly influence a student's path toward financial stability and career success. Each family’s situation is unique, but understanding these metrics can guide better decisions about education and future prospects.

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]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

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

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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