Zoology at San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Zoology/Animal Biology
51 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
52
Optimistic
51
Base Case
46
Pessimistic
Earnings $41,565/yr (46% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (29,200 openings/yr)
ROI 18.8x earnings multiple (7.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #1 of 55 Zoology/Animal Biology programs Top 5%

Program Analysis

Your strong outcomes in Zoology/Animal Biology at SF State reflect a unique advantage: the San Francisco Bay Area's diverse ecosystem of employers. Beyond traditional wildlife roles, you'll find opportunities with numerous biotech firms requiring biological expertise, conservation organizations like the Audubon Society or local nature centers, and even government agencies focused on environmental policy and research. The program's reputation likely helps graduates secure internships and entry-level positions in these competitive regional markets, leading to quicker career progression into management or specialized scientific roles that demand nuanced problem-solving. While some data collection or basic analysis tasks face automation risk, the strategic thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and hands-on fieldwork central to many advanced biological science careers remain indispensable. To thrive, prioritize building strong quantitative skills and seek out internships that blend field experience with lab work or data management.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $567K $560K $513K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 19.1x 18.8x 17.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.3x 7.2x 6.6x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 52 51 46

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$29,696
Out-of-state: $77,216 (7.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$51,528
-74% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$11,000
3.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$59,685
44% growth from Year 1

About San Francisco State University

A 96% acceptance rate means San Francisco State University is accessible to most applicants, serving a student body of 20,033 in San Francisco, CA. 41% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at San Francisco State University →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr
Biological science teachers, postsecondary $83,460/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Zoology at Other Schools

Other Majors at San Francisco State University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 51/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Zoology at San Francisco State University?
At 51/100, San Francisco State University's Zoology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Zoology at San Francisco State University?
The 46% 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.
Is San Francisco State University one of the best schools for Zoology?
Among 55 Zoology programs, San Francisco State University's #1 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →