Biology at Southern Oregon University
Ashland, OR · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
36
Optimistic
35
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings
$33,930/yr (5% vs median)
AI Risk
High (40% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI
9.2x earnings multiple (3.6x 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 | $442K | $446K | $427K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 9.1x | 9.2x | 8.8x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 3.6x | 3.6x | 3.5x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 49% | 45% | 35% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 36 | 35 | 35 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$48,372
Out-of-state: $122,892 (3.6x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,940
8.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$37,055
9% growth from Year 1
About Southern Oregon University
With 83% of applicants admitted, Southern Oregon University prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 2,911 students in Ashland, OR.
See all programs and financial aid at Southern Oregon 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 Southern Oregon University
Consider the Trade Route?
Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 35/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at Southern Oregon University?
At 35/100, 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 Oregon 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 →