Biology at Columbus State University

Columbus, GA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
37 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $28,947/yr (-10% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI 20.5x earnings multiple (7.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #429 of 822 Biology, General programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Biology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $471K $473K $448K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 20.5x 20.5x 19.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.0x 7.0x 6.7x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 38 37 38

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$23,004
Out-of-state: $67,220 (7.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$47,556
-107% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,275
11.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$41,476
43% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $28,947/yr, Biology graduates from Columbus State University land near the $32,219 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 20.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 5% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Biology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $27,275 against $28,947/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #429 ranking among 822 Biology programs places Columbus State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 43% earnings increase from $28,947 to $41,476 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Columbus State University

With 99% of applicants admitted, Columbus State University prioritizes broad access, serving 5,537 students in Columbus, GA. With 44% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at Columbus State University →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists $100,590/yr
Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr
View all 10 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Biology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Columbus State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at Columbus State University?
At 37/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biology at Columbus State University?
The 40% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →