Biology at Spelman College

Atlanta, GA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
23 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
24
Optimistic
23
Base Case
23
Pessimistic
Earnings $21,638/yr (-33% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI 4.9x earnings multiple
Ranked #784 of 822 Biology, General programs

Program Analysis

The initial career earnings for Spelman Biology graduates often reflect a common path for students from strong liberal arts institutions, particularly HBCUs with a commitment to service and advanced study. Many pursue this major as a rigorous pre-medical or pre-graduate school track, leading to roles like research assistants or entry-level positions in public health or non-profits before pursuing an MD, PhD, or other professional degree. Your peers frequently transition into demanding graduate programs or medical school, which naturally delays higher earning potential. Spelman's strong academic foundation prepares you exceptionally well for these advanced studies and leadership roles within the sciences. If maximizing early income is your primary goal, consider supplementing your degree with specific technical certifications or actively seeking industry-focused internships to accelerate your entry into higher-paying private sector roles upon graduation.

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 $593K $587K $537K
Earnings Multiple 4.9x 4.9x 4.5x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 24 23 23

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$120,232
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$147,312
-23% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
14.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$51,873
140% growth from Year 1

About Spelman College

Spelman College accepts 34% of applicants — selective, though not ultra-competitive, a compact campus enrolling 3,633 students in Atlanta, GA.

See all programs and financial aid at Spelman College →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists $100,590/yr
Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr
View all 10 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Biology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Spelman College

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 23/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at Spelman College?
At 23/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Biology degree from Spelman College?
At $26,000 in median debt, graduates carry 14 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biology at Spelman College?
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.
Is Spelman College a good choice for Biology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Spelman College's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →