Biological & Physical Sciencesat Portland State University
Graduates earn $37,419/yr in their first year — about 2.0% above the national Biological & Physical Sciences average. Base-case 10-year earnings $627K; scenarios range from $583K to $637K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Portland State University
Portland State's program stands out nationally, reflecting its effectiveness in preparing graduates for diverse scientific roles. Your early career earnings reflect the broad nature of a biological and physical sciences degree, often serving as a foundation for advanced study in medicine or specialized fields, or leading to entry-level positions in research and development. The urban setting of Portland provides unique opportunities, with connections to local government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and emerging biotech companies that value foundational scientific literacy. Many graduates leverage this degree into management roles in natural sciences, where leadership and interdisciplinary understanding drive significant earning growth. To maximize your potential, actively seek internships and research opportunities throughout your studies, tailoring your experiences to specific industry sectors that align with your long-term career aspirations.
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 Portland State 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 Biological & Physical Sciences
How Portland State University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Portland State University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Portland State University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Biological & Physical Sciences offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Biological & Physical Sciences trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Biological & Physical Sciences at Portland State University
How does Portland State University's Biological & Physical Sciences program score?
This program scores 51/100, reflecting respectable but not exceptional financial outcomes for Biological & Physical Sciences graduates.
Why does Portland State University rank so high for Biological & Physical Sciences?
The #5 ranking out of 26 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.