Nutrition Sciences at University of California-Davis

Davis, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
41 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
42
Optimistic
41
Base Case
41
Pessimistic
Earnings $34,512/yr (13% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Large (58,000 openings/yr)
ROI 10.4x earnings multiple (3.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #7 of 47 Nutrition Sciences programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

Your earnings reflect the strong scientific foundation and research opportunities inherent in a UC Davis degree, particularly given its renowned agricultural and biological sciences programs. This isn't just about dietetics; you'll develop robust analytical skills applicable across various sectors. Located in the heart of California's agricultural innovation, you're uniquely positioned for roles in food science, sustainable nutrition, public health policy, and biotech firms in the nearby Bay Area. Think beyond traditional clinics to food product development, regulatory affairs with state agencies, or research at major institutions. To thrive, especially considering the evolving landscape with AI, focus on practical applications. Leverage the university's research labs and internship connections with local food companies or health organizations. Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be crucial for navigating a field where data analysis and personalized recommendations are increasingly automated.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Nutrition Sciences graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $649K $636K $573K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.6x 10.4x 9.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.5x 3.5x 3.1x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 47% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 42 41 41

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 (3.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$61,152
-0% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$14,166
4.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$65,993
91% growth from Year 1

About University of California-Davis

With a 42% acceptance rate, University of California-Davis is moderately selective, one of the larger campuses at 31,777 students 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
Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr
View all 9 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Nutrition Sciences at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of California-Davis

Frequently Asked Questions

How does University of California-Davis's Nutrition Sciences program score?
This program scores 41/100 — on the lower end for Nutrition Sciences. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Nutrition Sciences to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Nutrition Sciences careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 44% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why does University of California-Davis rank so high for Nutrition Sciences?
The #7 ranking out of 47 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →