Biologyat Cornell University
Graduates earn $34,500/yr in their first year — about 7.0% above the national Biology average. Base-case 10-year earnings $663K; scenarios range from $596K to $675K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Cornell University
Your Cornell biology degree provides a robust scientific foundation, highly valued in competitive fields. The university's strong research culture and top-tier faculty mean you'll have unparalleled opportunities for hands-on experience, often starting as an undergraduate. This direct exposure to cutting-edge science, coupled with Cornell's brand, pipelines graduates into prestigious research institutions, pharmaceutical companies like Regeneron or Pfizer, and leading biotech firms, even if the immediate Ithaca job market isn't a major hub. While a broad biology degree offers versatility, many pursue further education—like medical school or a PhD—to unlock the higher earning potential seen in roles like natural sciences managers or medical scientists. Be mindful that routine lab tasks face increasing AI risk; therefore, actively seek out research roles emphasizing experimental design, critical thinking, and complex problem-solving during your studies to future-proof your career.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Cornell University's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Biology
How Cornell University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Cornell University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Cornell University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Biology offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Biology trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Biology at Cornell University
What does a 31/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at Cornell University?
At 31/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biology at Cornell 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.
What do students actually pay for Biology at Cornell University?
The 51% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $264,056. At a net cost of $129,348, the earnings multiple improves substantially.