Nutrition Sciencesat University of California-Davis
Graduates earn $34,512/yr in their first year — about 13.0% above the national Nutrition Sciences average. Base-case 10-year earnings $636K; scenarios range from $573K to $649K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at UC Davis
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.
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 UC Davis'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 Nutrition Sciences
How UC Davis stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at UC Davis
Other highest-scoring programs offered at UC Davis, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Frequently asked about Nutrition Sciences at UC Davis
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.