Physiology at Ursinus College

Collegeville, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
17 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
18
Optimistic
17
Base Case
18
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,123/yr (-16% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (60,300 openings/yr)
ROI 2.7x earnings multiple
Ranked #62 of 62 Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences programs

Program Analysis

The financial outcomes for this Physiology, Pathology, and Related Sciences program suggest a challenging path for immediate post-graduation employment. This often stems from the foundational nature of these disciplines, which frequently serve as strong preparation for advanced study rather than direct entry into high-paying roles with a bachelor's degree alone. Many Ursinus graduates in this field likely pursue medical school, PA programs, or PhDs, where the real career and salary growth occur. Without that further education, you might find yourself competing for lab technician or research assistant positions within the highly competitive Philadelphia-area biotech and pharmaceutical industry, which often prioritize candidates with specialized skills or graduate degrees. Given the identified high AI risk, future job market pressures could further impact roles focused on routine analysis. If you're considering this path, plan for significant further education or be prepared to aggressively seek internships and build highly specialized, in-demand skills during your undergraduate years.

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 $649K $641K $571K
Earnings Multiple 2.7x 2.7x 2.4x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 50% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 18 17 18

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$236,784
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$121,940
49% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
12.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$59,899
129% growth from Year 1

About Ursinus College

Ursinus College accepts 87% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, a smaller institution with 1,477 students in Collegeville, PA. The average net cost of $121,940 over four years represents a 49% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Ursinus College →

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

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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 does a 17/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Physiology at Ursinus College?
At 17/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Physiology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Physiology degree from Ursinus College?
At $27,000 in median debt, graduates carry 12 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Physiology at Ursinus College?
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 Ursinus College a good choice for Physiology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Ursinus College'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 →