Physiologyat University of California-Davis
Graduates earn $37,550/yr in their first year — about 21.0% above the national Physiology average. Base-case 10-year earnings $703K; scenarios range from $617K to $716K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at UC Davis
This UC Davis program's strength stems from its deep research focus and location within California's robust biotech corridor. Your foundational understanding of physiology and pathology, coupled with the university's strong reputation, positions you exceptionally well for roles in academic research, pharmaceutical development, or clinical science. Many graduates pursue advanced degrees, which explains the strong earnings potential, as high-level positions like medical scientists or natural science managers often require a Master's or Ph.D. You'll find opportunities at institutions like the UC Davis Medical Center or with numerous biotech firms across Northern California. Given the high AI risk in some lab-intensive roles, actively seek out research experience and internships that emphasize experimental design, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary problem-solving to future-proof your career.
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 Physiology
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.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Physiology offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Physiology trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Physiology at UC Davis
What does a 48/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Physiology at University of California-Davis?
At 48/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Physiology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Physiology at University of California-Davis?
The 45% 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 University of California-Davis one of the best schools for Physiology?
Among 62 Physiology programs, University of California-Davis's #7 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.