Biologyat Grinnell College
Graduates earn $37,170/yr in their first year — about 15.0% above the national Biology average. Base-case 10-year earnings $611K; scenarios range from $555K to $619K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Grinnell College
Grinnell's elite liberal arts foundation means your biology degree is highly valued, not just for scientific knowledge but for the rigorous critical thinking and analytical skills it cultivates. This robust preparation often channels graduates into advanced studies—medical school, PhD programs, or specialized master's degrees—which are key stepping stones to the research-intensive and managerial roles commonly pursued. While Grinnell isn't situated in a major biotech hub, its national reputation and alumni network provide pipelines to leading research institutions, universities, and pharmaceutical companies across the country. The broad nature of a Grinnell biology degree equips you with adaptable skills, but to best navigate the evolving scientific landscape, actively seek out specialized research experiences or internships to define your niche and build a competitive profile.
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 Grinnell College'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 Grinnell College stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Grinnell College
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Grinnell College, 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 Grinnell College
How does Grinnell College's Biology program score?
This program scores 31/100 — on the lower end for Biology. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Biology to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Biology careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 40% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
How affordable is Biology at Grinnell College after financial aid?
Sticker price is $259,448, but the average net cost is $62,432 — a 76% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.