Cell Biology at University of California-Davis

Davis, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
48 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
49
Optimistic
48
Base Case
45
Pessimistic
Earnings $37,952/yr (1% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Large (70,200 openings/yr)
ROI 11.0x earnings multiple (3.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #10 of 39 Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Your UC Davis degree in Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences offers a rigorous foundation, leveraging the university's strong reputation in life sciences. This program is a common launchpad, often preparing you for advanced study in medical school, graduate research, or specialized fields like bioinformatics. The initial earnings reflect that many graduates pursue further education or enter foundational lab roles as research assistants or technicians, especially in the vibrant biotech and pharmaceutical sectors of California's Central Valley and Bay Area. To achieve the higher earning potentials shown, you'll likely need to specialize or pursue advanced degrees. The reported AI risk suggests that roles involving repetitive lab tasks or data analysis might evolve, requiring you to develop strong analytical and computational skills to complement your biological expertise. Proactively seek out research opportunities and internships during your undergraduate years to gain practical experience and clarify your post-graduation path.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $681K $670K $591K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.2x 11.0x 9.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.7x 3.6x 3.2x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 46% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 49 48 45

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$60,988
Out-of-state: $184,096 (3.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$61,152
-0% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$12,000
3.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$72,879
92% growth from Year 1

About University of California-Davis

University of California-Davis accepts 42% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, serving a student body of 31,777 in Davis, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of California-Davis →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr
Biochemists and biophysicists $103,650/yr
View all 9 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 48/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Cell Biology at University of California-Davis?
At 48/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Cell Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Cell Biology at University of California-Davis?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →