Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Biology

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

Schools Analyzed

$101,718

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

90%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$28,647

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in Biology or Biomedical fields, the potential for high earnings is a significant factor for students and families alike. Graduates from these programs often find themselves in well-paying positions, with average earnings for this list at $101,854. This data can help inform decisions about which schools to prioritize.

The institutions featured here stand out due to their strong graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and impressive earnings outcomes. A program's effectiveness can often be measured through these metrics, which provide insight into the return on investment for students. The list below highlights schools that excel in preparing graduates for successful careers in biology-related fields.

Take Stanford University and Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, for instance. Stanford graduates earn an impressive $124,080, with a graduation rate of 92%, while Albany College has a lower earning potential at $131,426 but a significantly lower graduation rate of 68%. This contrast highlights the importance of both earnings and completion rates when evaluating these programs.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $143,372.

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences has a graduation rate of only 68%.

Harvey Mudd College graduates face an average debt of $25,000.

The average graduation rate across the schools in this list is 90%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $101,718

Avg. graduation rate 90%

Avg. net price $28,647

Avg. median debt $18,568

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings 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

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY

Graduation68%

Earnings$131,426

Net Price$29,882

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford University cultivates a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. With a graduation rate of 92%, students here benefit from a supportive environment that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

In the vibrant academic community of Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a hub for future innovators and leaders. With an impressive 96% graduation rate, students thrive in a rigorous curriculum that fosters critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences might be the right fit for students looking to enter the healthcare field. With a focus on pharmacy and health sciences, the college has a graduation rate of 68%, indicating a supportive environment for students pursuing specialized careers in healthcare.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is synonymous with academic excellence, evidenced by an impressive 97% graduation rate. Located in New Jersey, this private nonprofit school supports a diverse community of 5,709 students, creating a vibrant campus culture steeped in tradition and scholarly pursuit.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Claremont, California, Harvey Mudd College is a small but powerful institution known for its strong emphasis on engineering, science, and mathematics. With a graduation rate of 93%, students benefit from a tight-knit community that encourages collaboration and academic rigor.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is known for its focus on technology and the arts, nestled in Pittsburgh with a student body of 7,304. With a 93% graduation rate, the university emphasizes hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, making it an ideal choice for creative and analytical thinkers alike.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia is a powerhouse of academic rigor and innovation, attracting a diverse student body of 10,650. With a graduation rate of 97%, students here benefit from a collaborative learning environment that encourages both intellectual and personal growth.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

MCPHS University in Boston is dedicated to health sciences, a vital field that promises a meaningful career. With a graduation rate of 63%, the university prepares students for a variety of healthcare roles, and its graduates see median earnings of $125,557 after ten years, highlighting the strong return on investment for students pursuing this path.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology, often known as Caltech, is an academic powerhouse with a focus on science and engineering. With a 94% graduation rate, students here experience an exceptional learning environment that fosters innovation, leading to median earnings of $128,566 a decade post-graduation, a testament to the value of a Caltech education.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#10

University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 337 students · Private nonprofit

With a focused enrollment of just 337 students, the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis cultivates a tight-knit academic environment. This private nonprofit institution has a graduation rate of 69%, which reflects a supportive atmosphere for students pursuing health sciences careers.

90% accepted 69% graduate $137,047 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca is known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life. With an impressive 95% graduation rate, it prepares students for successful careers across various fields, reflected in the median earnings of $104,043 at the ten-year mark, making it a solid choice for aspiring professionals.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#12

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

Santa Clara University in California is a Jesuit institution that emphasizes ethics and social justice alongside academic excellence. With an 88% graduation rate, students are well-prepared to enter the workforce, and they can expect median earnings of $109,183 within a decade, highlighting the potential for financial success after graduation.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, is a powerhouse that attracts students from around the globe. The median earnings for graduates at 10 years post-enrollment reach an impressive $101,817, reflecting the school's strong network and influential alumni. This environment fosters not only academic excellence but also lifelong connections in diverse fields.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#14

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

The Georgia Institute of Technology, located in Atlanta, GA, is known for its cutting-edge research and innovation. With a graduation rate of 93% and median earnings of $102,772 for graduates 10 years after enrollment, it’s clear that this school prepares students for success in high-demand industries, particularly in technology and engineering fields.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#15

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, is a strong choice for students focused on engineering and technology. The school’s intimate campus of 4,222 students fosters a close-knit community where students can thrive, both academically and socially. Graduates earn a median income of $108,772 within a decade of finishing their degree, highlighting the value of the education offered here.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

#16

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College, nestled in Claremont, CA, offers a close-knit academic community focused on the liberal arts and social sciences. The college has a graduation rate of 93%, and its graduates enjoy median earnings of $104,736 just a decade after graduation, which points to the strong outcomes for students who invest in their education here.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#17

Boston College

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

Boston College, located in Chestnut Hill, MA, is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $103,937 at the 10-year mark, students benefit from a well-rounded education that prepares them for various career paths, particularly in business and education sectors.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#18

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, attracts students with its strong emphasis on research and innovation, reflected in its 89% graduation rate. With a student body of 5,898, there’s a vibrant campus culture that encourages collaboration and engagement among students. Graduates typically earn a median income of $105,584 after ten years, indicating solid returns on their educational investment.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#19

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University, located in the heart of New York City, boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 96%. With nearly 9,000 students, it offers a dynamic environment where academic rigor meets urban culture. Graduates see a median salary of $102,491 ten years after graduation, showcasing the advantages of a degree from this prestigious institution.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#20

Yale University

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

Yale University in New Haven is a place where students not only excel academically but also earn impressive salaries after graduation. With a median earning of $100,533 a decade post-graduation, students here tend to flourish in their careers, making it a great choice for those looking to invest in their future.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University in Washington, DC, has a graduation rate of 95%, reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence. With a student body of 7,569, the university combines a rich tradition with a commitment to social justice and public service. Graduates earn a median income of $103,494 within a decade, reflecting the strong career prospects available to alumni.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#22

University of Notre Dame

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

At the University of Notre Dame, tradition meets academic excellence. Known for its tight-knit community and commitment to holistic education, Notre Dame graduates enjoy a median earning of $99,980 ten years after completing their studies, setting a solid foundation for a successful career.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#23

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University in Durham is a hub of innovation and academic rigor. Graduates leave with a median earning of $97,800 ten years after graduation, making it an attractive option for students aiming for strong career prospects while being part of a vibrant campus life.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $102,051 at ten years post-graduation, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY, is a strong contender for students pursuing careers in engineering and technology. The school's 83% graduation rate suggests a supportive environment that helps students cross the finish line successfully, making it particularly appealing for those who thrive in a rigorous academic setting.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#25

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College, located in picturesque Hanover, offers a unique blend of intimate learning and exceptional academic opportunities. With a median earning of $97,434 at ten years post-graduation, it's clear that students here are well-prepared for successful careers in various fields.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#26

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

At Villanova University, located in Villanova, PA, students enjoy a community that values tradition and academic excellence, evident in its 92% graduation rate. The median earnings of $100,423 at ten years after graduation highlight the strong return on investment for those entering fields such as business and engineering, making this a solid choice for career-focused students.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#27

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester, MA · 5,447 students · Private nonprofit

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Worcester, MA, appeals to students interested in hands-on learning and innovation, boasting a median earning of $103,470 a decade after graduation. With an 89% graduation rate, WPI supports students in navigating their academic journeys, particularly those in STEM fields who thrive on collaborative projects and real-world applications of their studies.

60% accepted 89% graduate $103,470 earnings

Worcester's full profile

#28

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University in Providence, RI, captures attention with an impressive 96% graduation rate, which reflects a strong commitment to student success. The diverse opportunities for academic exploration and a collaborative culture attract students who are motivated to engage deeply in their studies and make the most of their college experience.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, the University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant intellectual community. The median earnings of its graduates hit $91,885 at ten years out, indicating that alumni typically find rewarding careers in a variety of fields, from finance to academia. This environment attracts students who are eager to engage deeply with complex ideas and challenge themselves academically.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#30

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University is renowned for its research opportunities and has a graduation rate of 94%. Graduates see median earnings of $87,555 a decade after graduation, which reflects the university's emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and practical applications. Students here are often drawn to the health sciences, engineering, and public policy, eager to make a difference in the world.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University, with a strong graduation rate of 94%, cultivates a close-knit community where students thrive in both academics and extracurricular activities. Graduates find themselves earning a median of $94,810 in their first decade post-graduation, showcasing the university's focus on preparing students for impactful careers. This institution attracts individuals who appreciate a blend of tradition and innovation in their educational experience.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#32

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University, located in Houston, TX, features a graduation rate of 95%, reflecting its supportive academic environment and strong faculty engagement. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $89,718 ten years after graduation, suggesting that Rice prepares students to excel in competitive job markets. This institution is popular among students who are curious, collaborative, and eager to explore diverse fields of study.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The university's vibrant campus culture and diverse academic offerings attract a talented student body, making it a popular choice for those looking to thrive in an engaging environment.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#34

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, cultivates a balanced educational experience with a graduation rate of 86%. Students here benefit from small class sizes and a strong sense of community, encouraging deep connections with faculty and peers. Graduates achieve impressive median earnings of $93,807 after ten years, showcasing the value of a Bucknell degree in the professional world.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

#35

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University in Boston, MA, attracts students eager for a blend of rigorous academics and real-world experience. With a graduation rate of 90%, this school emphasizes experiential learning, including co-op programs that connect students to industries and networks that can lead to successful careers.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#36

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Easton, PA, Lafayette College offers a close-knit community with a strong focus on undergraduate education. The college boasts an 88% graduation rate, illustrating its supportive environment that encourages student persistence and achievement. Graduates see median earnings of $91,410 after a decade, indicating that a Lafayette degree carries significant value in the job market.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#37

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

USC, located in the heart of Los Angeles, offers students a unique blend of academic rigor and cultural experiences. With a graduation rate of 92%, the university is known for its diverse programs and strong alumni network. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $92,498 after ten years, demonstrating the school's ability to equip students for successful careers in various fields.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#38

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, proves its commitment to student success. The school combines a rigorous academic environment with a vibrant campus life, drawing in students who are eager to engage and excel in their studies and extracurricular activities. The median earnings of $89,363 at 10 years post-graduation highlight the strong return on investment for graduates as they enter the workforce.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#39

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College in Williamstown, MA, is a small liberal arts college with an impressive 95% graduation rate that reflects its focus on personalized education. With only 2,076 students, the intimate setting encourages close relationships between students and professors, enhancing the learning experience and academic support.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#40

Kettering University

Flint, MI · 1,205 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong emphasis on engineering and technology, Kettering University attracts students who are eager to engage in hands-on learning experiences. Located in Flint, Michigan, this private nonprofit institution has a solid graduation rate of 71%, which reflects its commitment to supporting students through their academic journeys.

79% accepted 71% graduate $94,823 earnings

Kettering's full profile

#41

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to fostering critical thinking. With an impressive graduation rate of 88%, this private nonprofit college prepares students for diverse career paths while nurturing their intellectual growth and personal development.

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

#42

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

George Washington University, located in the heart of Washington, DC, offers a dynamic urban campus experience for its 11,182 students. With an 85% graduation rate, the university emphasizes a blend of rigorous academics and real-world opportunities, particularly in fields related to government, business, and international affairs. Students here benefit from a network of connections in a city full of resources and opportunities.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#43

Washington University in St Louis

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

At Washington University in St. Louis, students benefit from an academic environment that encourages innovation and research. With a remarkable graduation rate of 94%, this private nonprofit institution demonstrates a strong track record of supporting students through to their degrees and beyond.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#44

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

With a 91% graduation rate, Wellesley College demonstrates a commitment to student success and academic excellence. Located in Wellesley, MA, this private nonprofit college caters to around 2,300 students, creating a close-knit community where women thrive. The school cultivates leadership and critical thinking, preparing graduates for impactful careers.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#46

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Colgate University in Hamilton, NY, creates an environment where students can thrive academically and socially. The school’s focus on liberal arts education prepares graduates for diverse career paths, and the impressive median earnings of $85,139 at ten years post-graduation reflect the value of a Colgate degree in the job market.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#47

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

At the University of California-Berkeley, students join a legacy of excellence with a 93% graduation rate and a commitment to innovation and research. Located in the heart of Berkeley, CA, this public university attracts a diverse array of scholars eager to explore and contribute to various fields.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#48

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#49

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · 2,196 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 74% graduate $89,696 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

#50

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

When we compare Stanford University and Harvey Mudd College, a notable distinction emerges. Stanford graduates earn $124,080 with a graduation rate of 92%, while Harvey Mudd graduates earn slightly more at $138,687 but have a higher net price of $35,924. This suggests that while Harvey Mudd offers higher earnings, it comes with a greater financial commitment.

For families reviewing this list, it's crucial to align these earnings and graduation statistics with personal priorities. Consider factors like location, campus culture, and financial aid packages. Balancing potential earnings with debt levels can help in making a well-rounded decision. Each student's path is different, and what matters most is finding a school that fits both their academic and personal needs.

Ultimately, the data here reflects a broader reality: the right college choice can significantly influence a student's financial future and career stability. Investing time in selecting a school that aligns with individual goals can lead to a more secure life post-graduation. A thoughtful choice now can have lasting impacts for one family, shaping their future for years to come.

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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