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Nutrition Sciences at California State University-Chico

Chico, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $25,490/yr (-17% vs median)

AI Risk High (44% exposed)

Job Market Large (58,000 openings/yr)

ROI 12.3x earnings multiple (5.0x out-of-state)

Ranked #39 of 47 Nutrition Sciences programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Nutrition Sciences graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$390K	$398K	$392K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	12.1x	12.3x	12.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.9x	5.0x	4.9x
Probability of Field Employment	52%	47%	36%
DegreeOutlook Score	25	25	25

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$32,256

Out-of-state: $79,776 (5.0x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$59,352

-84% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$17,272

8.1 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

At $25,490 per year, Nutrition Sciences graduates from California State University-Chico earn below the $30,533 national average. Lower costs or geographic factors may offset the earnings gap.

With a 12.3x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The -1% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Nutrition Sciences career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $17,272 against $25,490/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #39 ranking among 47 Nutrition Sciences programs places California State University-Chico in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About California State University-Chico

With 94% of applicants admitted, California State University-Chico prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 13,057 in Chico, CA. Pell Grant recipients make up 40% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

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

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr

Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr

Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr

View all 9 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Nutrition Sciences at Other Schools

Other Majors at California State University-Chico

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 25/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Nutrition Sciences at California State University-Chico?

At 25/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Nutrition Sciences programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study Nutrition Sciences at California State University-Chico?

The 44% 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 California State University-Chico a good choice for Nutrition Sciences despite lower starting pay?

Starting salary is one data point. If California State University-Chico'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 →