Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at California State University-Long Beach

Long Beach, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
38 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
39
Optimistic
38
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,436/yr (19% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Large (72,700 openings/yr)
ROI 16.1x earnings multiple (6.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #9 of 64 Ecology & Evolution programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

This Cal State Long Beach program stands out nationally, reflecting its strong regional reputation and the unique environmental landscape of Southern California. Your robust earnings potential here isn't just about academic rigor; it's heavily influenced by the demand for skilled ecologists in a region grappling with diverse conservation challenges, from coastal ecosystems to urban wildlife. You'll find many graduates working with state and federal agencies like the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, environmental consulting firms, or non-profits focused on habitat restoration and policy. While the employment landscape can be dynamic, the program's focus prepares you for roles requiring both fieldwork and advanced analytical skills, including data interpretation crucial for careers in management or statistics. To thrive, actively seek internships that blend your ecological knowledge with data science or GIS, making you highly adaptable for future roles.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $447K $450K $433K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.9x 16.1x 15.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.9x 6.0x 5.7x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 49% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 39 38 38

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$28,032
Out-of-state: $75,552 (6.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$35,724
-27% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,750
6.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$45,596
29% growth from Year 1

About California State University-Long Beach

With a 47% acceptance rate, California State University-Long Beach is moderately selective, serving a student body of 34,131 in Long Beach, CA. With 49% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

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

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

Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at Other Schools

Other Majors at California State University-Long Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 38/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at California State University-Long Beach?
At 38/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Ecology & Evolutionary Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at California State University-Long Beach?
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 California State University-Long Beach one of the best schools for Ecology & Evolutionary Biology?
Among 64 Ecology & Evolutionary Biology programs, California State University-Long Beach's #9 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →