Biology at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings
$28,206/yr (-12% vs median)
AI Risk
High (40% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI
11.3x earnings multiple
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 | $609K | $601K | $548K |
| Earnings Multiple | 11.5x | 11.3x | 10.3x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 49% | 45% | 35% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 38 | 37 | 38 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$52,976
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,922
11.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$58,410
107% growth from Year 1
About Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
With 90% of applicants admitted, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 8,116 in Carbondale, IL.
See all programs and financial aid at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale →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 Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
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 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale?
At 37/100, 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 Southern Illinois University-Carbondale?
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 →