Biology at Iowa State University

Ames, IA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
44
Pessimistic
Earnings $32,528/yr (1% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI 13.9x earnings multiple (5.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #211 of 822 Biology, General programs Top 50%

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 $588K $582K $533K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 14.0x 13.9x 12.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.3x 5.3x 4.8x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 44 44

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$41,988
Out-of-state: $110,732 (5.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$72,660
-73% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,375
8.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$58,585
80% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $32,528 track close to the $32,219 national median for Biology programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 13.9x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Biology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $22,375 against $32,528/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #211 ranking among 822 Biology programs places Iowa State University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $32,528-to-$58,585 earnings arc over five years reflects a 80% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Iowa State University

Iowa State University has a 89% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with 25,033 students enrolled in Ames, IA.

See all programs and financial aid at Iowa 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

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Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at Iowa State University?
At 44/100, 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 Iowa 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 →