Physiology at University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
39 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
39
Optimistic
39
Base Case
39
Pessimistic
Earnings $23,151/yr (-25% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (60,300 openings/yr)
ROI 16.0x earnings multiple (5.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #25 of 62 Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

UCLA’s esteemed reputation for a science program might lead you to expect immediate high earnings, but this particular field often serves as a rigorous stepping stone. Many graduates pursue professional degrees like medicine, dentistry, or a PhD, meaning initial bachelor's earnings reflect transitional roles or research assistant positions before their advanced training pays off. The local Southern California biotech and medical research ecosystem provides excellent hands-on opportunities, but entry-level roles can be competitive. The high AI risk reflects the increasing automation of foundational lab techniques and diagnostic support, which requires you to develop specialized analytical or interdisciplinary skills. Consider this degree a strong foundation, but plan your next educational or professional step strategically. Focus on acquiring advanced data science or computational skills to complement your scientific expertise.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $905K $882K $747K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 16.5x 16.0x 13.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.1x 5.0x 4.2x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 50% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 39 39 39

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$54,988
Out-of-state: $178,096 (5.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$56,052
-2% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$16,900
8.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$77,228
234% growth from Year 1

About University of California-Los Angeles

Only 9% of applicants gain admission to University of California-Los Angeles, reflecting elite selectivity, one of the larger campuses at 33,040 students in Los Angeles, CA.

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

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr
Biochemists and biophysicists $103,650/yr
View all 7 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Physiology at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of California-Los Angeles

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 39/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Physiology at University of California-Los Angeles?
At 39/100, 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-Los Angeles?
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-Los Angeles a good choice for Physiology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of California-Los Angeles's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →