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Biology, General at Western Colorado University

Gunnison, CO · Public · Bachelor's Degree
34 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
35
Optimistic
34
Base Case
34
Pessimistic
Earnings $29,881/yr (-7% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI 11.5x earnings multiple (5.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #520 of 822 Biology, General programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption		 Base Case
Gradual AI		 Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $511K $510K $477K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.5x 11.5x 10.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.4x 5.4x 5.0x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 35 34 34

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$44,332
Out-of-state: $94,732 (5.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,092
-51% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,065
6.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$47,411
59% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Western Colorado University's Biology, General program produces graduates earning $29,881/yr — within striking distance of the $32,219 national average for this field.

With a 11.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 7% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Biology, General career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $17,065 against $29,881/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #520 ranking among 822 Biology, General programs places Western Colorado University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $29,881-to-$47,411 earnings arc over five years reflects a 59% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Western Colorado University

A 97% acceptance rate means Western Colorado University is accessible to most applicants, with a smaller student body of 1,653 in Gunnison, CO.

See all programs and financial aid at Western Colorado 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

Compare this program → View all 822 schools offering Biology, General →

Biology, General at Other Schools

University of San Diego ($54,223) Trinity College ($52,179) Worcester Polytechnic Institute ($51,711) Edgewood College ($51,134) Shepherd University ($49,165) Roger Williams University ($47,799) Barnard College ($47,329) Curry College ($46,736)

Other Majors at Western Colorado University

Economics ($53,403) Accounting and Related Services ($47,204) Sociology ($43,178) Business Administration, Management and Operations ($41,886) Psychology, General ($32,352) Political Science and Government ($30,272) Natural Resources Conservation and Research ($26,123) Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies ($25,903)

Explore the Trade Alternative

Compare Biology, General trade programs on TradeSchoolWorth →

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 34/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology, General at Western Colorado University?
At 34/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Biology, General programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biology, General at Western Colorado 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 →