Biologyat St. Mary's University
Graduates earn $20,104/yr in their first year — about 38.0% below the national Biology average. Base-case 10-year earnings $652K; scenarios range from $587K to $663K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at St. Mary's University
Your St. Mary's General Biology degree outcomes stand out, with graduates earning significantly below the national average for this major. This often suggests that many students use this broad degree as a strong pre-medical or pre-graduate school foundation, rather than entering the workforce directly after graduation. Initial salaries can be low for those pursuing further education, or for entry-level lab technician roles within San Antonio's healthcare and research institutions.
While the city has a growing biomedical sector, the general nature of the degree means you'll need to actively seek specialized experiences. The high AI risk further emphasizes the importance of developing advanced analytical and practical lab skills that complement a core biology education. To maximize your earning potential, consider internships or research opportunities early to build a strong resume, and explore combining your biology major with a minor in a more applied field like data science or business, particularly if you plan to enter the workforce directly.
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 St. Mary's 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 Biology
How St. Mary's University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at St. Mary's University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at St. Mary's University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Biology offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Biology trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Biology at St. Mary's University
What does a 23/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at St. Mary's University?
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 St. Mary's University?
At $27,000 in median debt, graduates carry 16 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 St. Mary's 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.
Is St. Mary's University a good choice for Biology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If St. Mary's University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.