Biology at University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
29 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
30
Optimistic
29
Base Case
29
Pessimistic
Earnings $32,876/yr (2% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI 2.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #679 of 822 Biology, General programs

Program Analysis

A Notre Dame Biology degree provides a robust scientific foundation, leveraging the university's strong academic reputation and extensive alumni network. While the "general" nature of this program means immediate post-graduation salaries for a bachelor's alone might not initially outpace some specialized fields, it's often a strategic springboard. Many graduates use this degree as a direct pathway into demanding professional programs like medical, dental, or veterinary school, or pursue advanced research via a Ph.D., where the real earning potential and career depth are unlocked. The listed career paths, like medical or biological scientists, strongly indicate that further education is a common and often necessary step for these roles. Given the high AI risk identified, focusing your studies on critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and advanced research methodologies – skills less susceptible to automation – will be crucial. Consider coupling your biology studies with strong quantitative skills or a minor in a complementary field like data science to enhance your long-term career resilience and marketability in a rapidly evolving scientific landscape.

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 $664K $653K $588K
Earnings Multiple 2.6x 2.6x 2.3x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 30 29 29

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$250,772
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$111,292
56% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,750
7.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$67,689
106% growth from Year 1

About University of Notre Dame

University of Notre Dame's 12% admission rate places it in the top tier of selectivity nationally, enrolling 8,923 students in Notre Dame, IN. The average net cost of $111,292 over four years represents a 56% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Notre Dame →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists $100,590/yr
Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr
View all 10 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Biology at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Notre Dame

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 29/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at University of Notre Dame?
At 29/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biology at University of Notre Dame?
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.
What do students actually pay for Biology at University of Notre Dame?
The 56% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $250,772. At a net cost of $111,292, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →