Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
22
Optimistic
22
Base Case
22
Pessimistic
Earnings
$23,846/yr (-20% vs median)
AI Risk
High (46% exposed)
Job Market
Large (72,700 openings/yr)
ROI
6.3x earnings multiple (5.0x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Ecology & Evolutionary Biology graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $377K | $385K | $385K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 6.2x | 6.3x | 6.3x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.9x | 5.0x | 5.0x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 53% | 49% | 36% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 22 | 22 | 22 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$61,192
Out-of-state: $76,392 (5.0x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,250
13.2 months of Year 1 earnings
About Western Michigan University
Western Michigan University has a 85% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 12,704 students in Kalamazoo, MI.
See all programs and financial aid at Western Michigan University →Top Career Paths
Natural sciences managers
$161,180/yr
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary
$105,620/yr
Statisticians
$103,300/yr
Compare & Explore
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 22/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at Western Michigan University?
At 22/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Ecology & Evolutionary Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Ecology & Evolutionary Biology degree from Western Michigan University?
At $26,250 in median debt, graduates carry 13 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at Western Michigan University?
The 46% 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 Western Michigan University a good choice for Ecology & Evolutionary Biology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Western Michigan University'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 →