Biology at William Carey University

Hattiesburg, MS · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Biology, General
23 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
24
Optimistic
23
Base Case
23
Pessimistic
Earnings $19,910/yr (-38% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (113,000 openings/yr)
ROI 8.5x earnings multiple
Ranked #787 of 822 Biology, General programs

Program Analysis

A general biology degree from William Carey presents a foundational science education, but your initial career trajectory and earning potential will largely be shaped by the regional job market in Mississippi. Unlike major biotech hubs, opportunities for high-paying, specialized research roles are less common here. Many graduates initially find themselves in entry-level positions within healthcare support, environmental services, or education, where compensation reflects local economic conditions rather than national averages for advanced scientific roles. The higher-earning career paths often require significant further education—think medical school, a Ph.D., or specialized master's programs—to unlock those salary levels. A bachelor's alone is typically a stepping stone. To maximize your return on investment, strategically plan for graduate studies or actively seek internships that provide highly marketable lab skills, data analysis experience, or business acumen to differentiate yourself in a competitive 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 $498K $498K $467K
Earnings Multiple 8.5x 8.5x 8.0x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 45% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 24 23 23

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$58,740
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$68,208
-16% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$15,961
9.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$40,560
104% growth from Year 1

About William Carey University

William Carey University accepts 58% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, a compact campus enrolling 1,818 students in Hattiesburg, MS.

See all programs and financial aid at William Carey University →

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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For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 23/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biology at William Carey University?
At 23/100, 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 William Carey University?
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.
Is William Carey University a good choice for Biology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If William Carey 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 →