Biologyat University of San Diego
Graduates earn $54,223/yr in their first year — about 68.0% above the national Biology average. Base-case 10-year earnings $597K; scenarios range from $544K to $604K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at University of San Diego
The strong outcomes for USD Biology graduates are directly tied to San Diego's unique economic landscape. The region is a global hub for biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical device companies, creating robust demand for skilled biological scientists right on your doorstep. Your general biology degree from a respected private institution like USD provides a rigorous scientific foundation. This often includes access to cutting-edge research opportunities and connections vital for securing coveted internships with local employers.
This specialized regional market means you’re not just getting a general science education; you’re being prepared for roles in R&D, clinical trials, or even management within these high-growth industries. While some entry-level biological data tasks might see AI integration, the advanced research and leadership roles many USD grads attain often leverage AI as a powerful tool, not a replacement. Focus intensely on securing hands-on research and internships early to build a competitive profile for these local, high-demand positions.
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 University of San Diego'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 Biology
How University of San Diego stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at University of San Diego
Other highest-scoring programs offered at University of San Diego, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Biology offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Biology trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Biology at University of San Diego
What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Biology at University of San Diego?
A score of 45/100 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 $544,264 in decade earnings vs $603,985 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
What makes University of San Diego's Biology program stand out?
Ranked #180 of 822 programs nationally, University of San Diego lands in the top 25%. The ranking reflects a combination of graduate earnings, return on investment, and job market alignment.