Biology at James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
43
Pessimistic
Earnings
$34,159/yr (6% vs median)
AI Risk
High (40% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI
10.9x earnings multiple (4.8x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Biology graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $599K | $592K | $541K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 11.0x | 10.9x | 10.0x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.9x | 4.8x | 4.4x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 49% | 45% | 35% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 45 | 44 | 43 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$54,304
Out-of-state: $123,160 (4.8x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,594
7.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$60,841
78% growth from Year 1
About James Madison University
With 76% of applicants admitted, James Madison University prioritizes broad access, one of the larger campuses at 20,497 students in Harrisonburg, VA.
See all programs and financial aid at James Madison University →Top Career Paths
Natural sciences managers
$161,180/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists
$100,590/yr
Biological scientists, all other
$93,330/yr
Compare & Explore
Biology at Other Schools
Other Majors at James Madison University
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at James Madison University?
At 44/100, 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 James Madison 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →