Biology at University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras

San Juan, PR · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
34 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
34
Optimistic
34
Base Case
32
Pessimistic
Earnings $11,923/yr (-63% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI 28.3x earnings multiple
Ranked #561 of 822 Biology, General programs

Program Analysis

The earnings data for this General Biology program at UPR-Rio Piedras reflects the distinct economic realities and labor market in Puerto Rico, where starting salaries for many fields, especially foundational science degrees, are often calibrated to local conditions rather than mainland benchmarks. A bachelor's in general biology typically serves as an excellent springboard, but direct entry into the highest-paying research or managerial roles usually requires further education—think master's degrees, PhDs, or professional schools like medicine. Graduates often find initial roles in local labs, educational institutions, or healthcare support, building experience before specializing or pursuing advanced degrees. The program provides a robust scientific foundation, crucial for those aiming for medical school, advanced biological research, or related health professions, many of whom pursue opportunities both on the island and in the continental US. Your career trajectory will heavily depend on whether you leverage this degree for further specialization or advanced study.

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 $611K $603K $549K
Earnings Multiple 28.7x 28.3x 25.8x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 34 34 32

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$21,296
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$26,028
-22% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$5,500
5.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$42,562
257% growth from Year 1

About University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras

University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras accepts 53% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, serving 8,748 students in San Juan, PR. Pell Grant recipients make up 65% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras →

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

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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 is the DegreeOutlook Score for Biology at University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras?
A score of 34/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Biology. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Will AI replace Biology careers?
With 40% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $549,012 in decade earnings vs $610,537 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Can you still earn well with Biology from University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →