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Biology at George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $34,719/yr (8% vs median)

AI Risk High (40% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)

ROI 11.7x earnings multiple (4.1x out-of-state)

Ranked #123 of 822 Biology, General programs Top 25%

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	$658K	$647K	$584K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	11.9x	11.7x	10.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.2x	4.1x	3.7x
Probability of Field Employment	49%	45%	35%
DegreeOutlook Score	48	48	47

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$55,260

Out-of-state: $157,588 (4.1x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$73,148

-32% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$19,125

6.6 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$68,233

97% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $34,719 per year, Biology graduates from George Mason University earn slightly above the $32,219 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 11.7x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 11% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Biology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $19,125 against $34,719/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

George Mason University ranks #123 among 822 Biology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The $34,719-to-$68,233 earnings arc over five years reflects a 97% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About George Mason University

With 89% of applicants admitted, George Mason University prioritizes broad access, serving a student body of 27,083 in Fairfax, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at George Mason 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

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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 48/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at George Mason University?

At 48/100, 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 George Mason 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.

Is George Mason University one of the best schools for Biology?

Among 822 Biology programs, George Mason University's #123 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →