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Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $25,819/yr (-32% vs median)

AI Risk High (45% exposed)

Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)

ROI 7.9x earnings multiple (3.0x out-of-state)

Ranked #131 of 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$379K	$388K	$387K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	7.7x	7.9x	7.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	2.9x	3.0x	3.0x
Probability of Field Employment	58%	53%	40%
DegreeOutlook Score	23	22	26

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$49,048

Out-of-state: $130,648 (3.0x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$56,680

-16% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$21,000

9.8 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $25,819/yr fall 32% below the $37,918 national median for Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

A 7.9x earnings multiple over ten years puts this program in solid financial territory. Tuition is well-justified by projected earnings.

The -2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $21,000 against $25,819/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #131 ranking among 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs places Old Dominion University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University has a 91% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 17,521 students in Norfolk, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Old Dominion University →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr

Biochemists and biophysicists $103,650/yr

Medical scientists, except epidemiologists $100,590/yr

View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 22/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Old Dominion University?

At 22/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Old Dominion University?

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 Old Dominion University a good choice for Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology despite lower starting pay?

Starting salary is one data point. If Old Dominion 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 →