Rankings / Value

Best ROI Colleges for Biology

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

Schools Analyzed

$89,087

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

91%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$21,161

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right college for a biology or biomedical program can be a significant decision. With an average salary of $91,921 for graduates in this field, the financial implications are clear. Weighing the return on investment is crucial for students and families navigating this choice.

The standout schools on this list excel in key metrics: earnings, graduation rates, debt levels, and mobility. For instance, schools like Princeton and Stanford not only boast impressive graduation rates—97% and 92%, respectively—but also offer solid earning potential after graduation, helping to justify their costs. Understanding these metrics helps you assess which institutions can provide not just an education but a pathway to financial stability.

Take Princeton and Johns Hopkins as examples. While Princeton graduates earn an average of $110,066, Johns Hopkins students make about $87,555. However, the net price of attending Princeton is $6,128 compared to Johns Hopkins at $18,809, which illustrates how financial decisions can significantly impact overall ROI. This contrast highlights the importance of fully evaluating both earnings potential and costs when considering your options.

Key Findings

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

Stanford alumni report an average income of $124,080 but face a higher net price of $13,807.

Johns Hopkins has a solid 94% graduation rate, but its average earnings are lower at $87,555.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology students incur an average debt of $14,768, which is among the highest on this list.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $89,087

Avg. graduation rate 91%

Avg. net price $21,161

Avg. median debt $15,172

How We Ranked

Ranked by return on investment 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 →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

Graduation94%

Earnings$87,555

Net Price$18,809

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University, located in the heart of New Jersey, has a graduation rate of 97%. This high level of success reflects the supportive environment and strong academic resources available to students, making it an attractive choice for those who thrive in a collaborative and rigorous setting.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, nestled in California’s Silicon Valley, attracts students who are eager to innovate and lead. With a 92% graduation rate, students often find themselves at the forefront of research and entrepreneurship, fueled by the university's strong connections to the tech industry and a vibrant campus culture.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore is recognized for its research-driven approach, especially in the fields of medicine and public health. With a graduation rate of 94%, students benefit from a network of experts and hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for impactful careers.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, students dive into a world of science and technology that shapes the future. With a 96% graduation rate, the school fosters a unique environment where collaboration and creativity flourish, attracting inquisitive minds ready to tackle complex challenges.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Chicago, the University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 95%, reflecting its strong academic support systems. With 7,569 students and a selective acceptance rate of 4%, it attracts ambitious scholars who thrive in a challenging environment focused on critical thinking and inquiry.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is synonymous with academic excellence, boasting a 97% graduation rate. With a student body of 7,601 and a highly selective acceptance rate of 4%, it cultivates an environment rich in intellectual rigor and cultural diversity, attracting some of the most talented individuals from around the world.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Rice University in Houston is known for its rigorous academics and supportive community. The low acceptance rate of 8% indicates that it attracts some of the brightest students, contributing to a vibrant campus culture where collaboration and innovation thrive.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia has a graduation rate of 97%, highlighting its commitment to student success. With 10,650 students and a low acceptance rate of 5%, it fosters a competitive yet nurturing environment, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various fields.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, located in Ithaca, NY, offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a picturesque campus. With a 95% graduation rate, students here benefit from a supportive yet challenging educational atmosphere that prepares them for the complexities of modern careers, evident in the median earnings of $104,043 ten years after graduation.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#10

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, Brown University in Providence, RI, attracts a diverse and driven student body. The academic environment encourages critical thinking and creativity, making it a haven for those who thrive in a collaborative, open curriculum where students shape their educational journey.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College, nestled in Brunswick, offers an intimate learning experience with just 1,873 students, allowing for close relationships with professors and peers. The 95% graduation rate reflects the college's dedication to student success and engagement, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a tight-knit community.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#12

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University in Durham, NC, is known for its vibrant campus life and strong commitment to research and innovation. The 96% graduation rate reflects the university's dedication to student success, and its impressive median earnings of $97,800 at ten years post-graduation indicate a solid return on investment for graduates navigating their careers.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Williamstown, MA, Williams College is renowned for its intimate learning environment and strong emphasis on undergraduate education. With a 95% graduation rate, students engage closely with faculty in small class settings, fostering in-depth discussions and personal mentorship that enhances their academic experience and career readiness.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#14

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 92%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is highly regarded for its commitment to student success. Located in the vibrant town of Chapel Hill, this public university has a diverse student body of over 20,000, creating a lively campus environment filled with opportunities for academic and social engagement.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, known for its commitment to women's education, is home to 2,300 students who benefit from a rigorous academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, Wellesley nurtures its students, preparing them for successful careers and strong community engagement.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#16

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Claremont, California, Pomona College is a private liberal arts college that fosters a challenging academic environment with a focus on individualized learning. With a 93% graduation rate, the college is dedicated to nurturing student potential and providing an enriching educational experience that prepares graduates for success in various fields.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#17

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, a small liberal arts institution in Massachusetts, is known for its close-knit community and strong emphasis on undergraduate education. With a graduation rate of 94%, it promises an environment where students receive personalized attention from professors and can excel academically in various disciplines.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#18

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Nashville is more than just music and food; it's home to Vanderbilt University, where 93% of students graduate. This high completion rate suggests a supportive environment, making it a great option for students looking for a place that fosters success.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#19

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 93%, Georgia Institute of Technology is a solid choice for students looking for a rigorous academic environment. Located in Atlanta, this public university offers a thriving tech scene and numerous opportunities for hands-on experience in engineering, computing, and the sciences.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#20

Yale University

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

Yale University is a hub of academic excellence and cultural richness, nestled in New Haven, Connecticut. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, students here are not only well-prepared academically but also deeply engaged in a vibrant community that values diverse perspectives and collaboration.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

University of Florida is a large public university known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs. With 35,629 students, this institution fosters a diverse environment with a wide range of extracurricular activities and a commitment to research and innovation.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#22

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Caltech is a powerhouse for students passionate about science and technology, with a tight-knit community of just 987 students. Graduating 94% of its students, Caltech cultivates an environment where academic rigor meets collaboration, making it ideal for those who thrive in challenging settings.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#23

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis boasts a graduation rate of 94%, reflecting its dedication to helping students succeed academically. Located in a culturally rich city, this private nonprofit university is home to a close-knit community of nearly 8,000 students who benefit from a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#24

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University is known for its strong academic programs and high graduation rate of 96%. Nestled in Evanston, Illinois, this private nonprofit institution offers a rich array of resources and opportunities for students, creating an environment where collaboration and innovation thrive.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#25

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College, a small liberal arts institution in North Carolina, welcomes around 1,867 students to a tight-knit community dedicated to academic excellence. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $81,400 ten years after graduation, students here leave well-equipped for success in their chosen paths, often pursuing impactful careers in various sectors.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#26

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College, located in Haverford, PA, has a close-knit community with just 1,430 students. The school boasts an impressive 90% graduation rate, highlighting its commitment to student success. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $79,966 within ten years, suggesting that a Haverford education pays off in the long run.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#27

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University is situated in the heart of New York City, giving students access to a vibrant cultural landscape and a wealth of opportunities. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, it's clear that many students thrive in this challenging yet supportive environment.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#28

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, nestled in Waterville, Maine, offers a close-knit community with just over 2,400 students. The college has an 89% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success in a personalized educational setting where faculty engagement is a priority.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College, situated in Lewiston, ME, fosters an intimate academic environment with around 1,760 students. Its 90% graduation rate speaks to its dedication to student achievement. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $69,498 ten years after completing their degree, showcasing the value of a Bates education in the workforce.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University in Hamilton, NY, offers a vibrant campus life for its 3,180 students. With a 91% graduation rate, this private nonprofit institution emphasizes academic excellence. Graduates can expect an impressive median earning of $85,139 a decade after graduation, reflecting the quality of education they receive.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#31

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University in Atlanta is known for its vibrant campus life and a strong emphasis on research across various fields. The school boasts a graduation rate of 91%, indicating that students find the resources and support needed to succeed in their academic pursuits.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College, with its 96% graduation rate, attracts students who are not only academically motivated but also engaged in their communities. This private nonprofit institution in Hanover, New Hampshire, is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a close-knit campus atmosphere with just over 4,500 students.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#33

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a 93% graduation rate, Claremont McKenna College emphasizes a strong commitment to student success. Its median earnings of $104,736 at ten years post-graduation reflect the value of a degree from this institution, particularly for those pursuing careers in business, finance, and public policy.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#34

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA, cultivates a strong academic environment that leads to impressive outcomes for its students. The median earnings of $94,810 at ten years post-graduation reflect the value of the education here, indicating that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in a variety of fields.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#35

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, with a student body of only 1,613, fosters a tight-knit community where academic rigor meets a commitment to social responsibility. Its 93% graduation rate signals that students here not only enroll but thrive, often shaping their futures in meaningful ways post-graduation.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#36

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary, located in historic Williamsburg, is known for its intimate setting and deep-rooted traditions. With a graduation rate of 90%, this public university cultivates an environment where students receive personalized attention, often leading to strong connections with faculty and peers alike.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#37

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#38

University of Notre Dame

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

Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, the University of Notre Dame is celebrated for its commitment to academic rigor and community values. With a graduation rate of 96%, students benefit from a close-knit environment that nurtures both intellectual and personal growth among its 8,818 students.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#39

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is known for its rigorous programs and a graduation rate of 93%. The median earnings of $114,862 at ten years post-graduation highlight the university's strong emphasis on STEM and arts education, making it a prime choice for students aiming for high-paying careers in technology and the creative fields.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#40

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#42

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Barnard College

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

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#44

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#45

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#47

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#48

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and public service. With a graduation rate of 95%, the institution not only attracts ambitious students but also helps them achieve their goals through a rich curriculum and extensive networking opportunities.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#50

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

When comparing schools such as Rice University and Stanford, we see clear performance differences. Rice graduates earn an average of $89,718, while Stanford alumni earn $124,080. The tradeoff? Rice has a lower net price of $13,370 compared to Stanford's $13,807, making it imperative for students to weigh potential earnings against the financial commitment.

As you sift through these 50 institutions, consider your personal priorities. Are you leaning towards a strong earnings potential, or is a lower debt load more critical for your future? Assess how each school aligns with your career goals and lifestyle. Visit campuses, talk to alumni, and reflect on what environment will help you thrive in your studies.

Ultimately, this data underscores the journey from college to a stable, rewarding career. One family's choice to invest in education today shapes not just their future but also their community's economic landscape tomorrow. Choosing wisely now can set the stage for success later.

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]

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

[3]

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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