Natural Resources Conservation and Research at California State University-Channel Islands

Camarillo, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
33 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
34
Optimistic
33
Base Case
31
Pessimistic
Earnings $31,938/yr (-8% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Large (55,700 openings/yr)
ROI 16.0x earnings multiple (5.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #140 of 256 Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Natural Resources Conservation and Research graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $430K $438K $421K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.8x 16.0x 15.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.8x 5.9x 5.6x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 34 33 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)
$27,268
Out-of-state: $74,788 (5.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$39,168
-44% less than sticker · See by income

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $31,938 track close to the $34,545 national median for Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 16.0x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Natural Resources Conservation and Research career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

A #140 ranking among 256 Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs places California State University-Channel Islands in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About California State University-Channel Islands

California State University-Channel Islands has a 93% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 5,230 students in Camarillo, CA. Pell Grant recipients make up 47% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at California State University-Channel Islands →

Top Career Paths

Forestry and conservation science teachers, postsecondary $100,830/yr
Environmental science teachers, postsecondary $87,710/yr
Environmental scientists and specialists, including health $80,060/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Other Schools

Other Majors at California State University-Channel Islands

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 33/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Natural Resources Conservation and Research at California State University-Channel Islands?
At 33/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Natural Resources Conservation and Research at California State University-Channel Islands?
The 48% 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 →