Ecology & Evolution at Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
31 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
32
Optimistic
31
Base Case
31
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,725/yr (-24% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Large (72,700 openings/yr)
ROI 14.0x earnings multiple (4.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #23 of 64 Ecology & Evolution programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Ecology & Evolution graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $598K $591K $536K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 14.2x 14.0x 12.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.9x 4.9x 4.4x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 49% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 32 31 31

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$42,240
Out-of-state: $121,400 (4.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$73,720
-75% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,038
10.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$52,375
130% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $22,725 per year, Ecology & Evolution graduates from Stony Brook University earn below the $29,875 national average. Lower costs or geographic factors may offset the earnings gap.

With a 14.0x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 10% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Ecology & Evolution career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $20,038 against $22,725/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #23 ranking among 64 Ecology & Evolution programs places Stony Brook University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $22,725-to-$52,375 earnings arc over five years reflects a 130% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University accepts 49% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, enrolling 17,420 students in Stony Brook, NY.

See all programs and financial aid at Stony Brook University →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr
Statisticians $103,300/yr
View all 13 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 31/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Ecology & Evolution at Stony Brook University?
At 31/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Ecology & Evolution programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Ecology & Evolution at Stony Brook University?
The 46% 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 Stony Brook University a good choice for Ecology & Evolution despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Stony Brook University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →