Biology at University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
50
Optimistic
50
Base Case
48
Pessimistic
Earnings
$36,286/yr (13% vs median)
AI Risk
High (40% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI
14.8x earnings multiple (6.8x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Biology graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $583K | $577K | $529K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 15.0x | 14.8x | 13.6x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 6.9x | 6.8x | 6.2x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 49% | 45% | 35% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 50 | 50 | 48 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,912
Out-of-state: $85,088 (6.8x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,720
6.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$59,773
65% growth from Year 1
About University of Northern Iowa
With 94% of applicants admitted, University of Northern Iowa prioritizes broad access, serving 7,599 students in Cedar Falls, IA.
See all programs and financial aid at University of Northern Iowa →Top Career Paths
Natural sciences managers
$161,180/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists
$100,590/yr
Biological scientists, all other
$93,330/yr
Compare & Explore
Biology at Other Schools
Other Majors at University of Northern Iowa
Consider the Trade Route?
Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 50/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at University of Northern Iowa?
At 50/100, University of Northern Iowa's Biology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biology at University of Northern Iowa?
The 40% 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 →