Natural Sciences at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Harrisburg, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
20 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
20
Optimistic
20
Base Case
33
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,252/yr (-30% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (24% exposed)
Job Market Medium (24,400 openings/yr)
ROI 5.7x earnings multiple
Ranked #10 of 11 Natural Sciences programs

Program Analysis

This Natural Sciences program at Harrisburg University differentiates itself within a very niche national landscape. The relatively lower initial earnings reflect the regional labor market, which leans more towards government agencies, local healthcare systems, and educational roles rather than large-scale private sector research and development hubs. Many graduates may find opportunities with state environmental protection agencies, agricultural departments, or in quality control within smaller manufacturing or food science firms in the central Pennsylvania region. The program's structure likely emphasizes foundational scientific principles, which often serve as a strong base for further specialization or graduate studies. To truly unlock the higher-earning career paths like research scientists or managers, you'll likely need to pursue advanced degrees. Consider researching the specific capstone projects, faculty research interests, and internship placements to understand where graduates *actually* land, and be prepared to leverage the program as a springboard for further academic or professional development.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $549K $547K $524K
Earnings Multiple 5.7x 5.7x 5.5x
Probability of Field Employment 77% 74% 64%
DegreeOutlook Score 20 20 33

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$95,600
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$55,064
42% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
14.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$45,500
104% growth from Year 1

About Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

With 82% of applicants admitted, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 650 students in Harrisburg, PA. Pell Grant recipients make up 48% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $55,064 — 42% less than the list price.

See all programs and financial aid at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Physical scientists, all other $117,960/yr
Life scientists, all other $87,800/yr
View all 4 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Natural Sciences at Other Schools

Other Majors at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

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 20/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Natural Sciences at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology?
At 20/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Natural Sciences programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Natural Sciences degree from Harrisburg University of Science and Technology?
At $26,000 in median debt, graduates carry 14 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Harrisburg University of Science and Technology a good choice for Natural Sciences despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Harrisburg University of Science and Technology'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 →