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Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Portland State University

Portland, OR · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
38 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
39
Optimistic
38
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,230/yr (6% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)
ROI 10.6x earnings multiple (3.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #78 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 $475K $476K $453K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.6x 10.6x 10.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.9x 3.9x 3.8x
Probability of Field Employment 58% 53% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 39 38 38

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$44,952
Out-of-state: $120,552 (3.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$51,728
-15% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,221
6.6 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

At $40,230 per year, Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology graduates from Portland State University earn slightly above the $37,918 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 10.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 5% 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 $22,221 against $40,230/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #78 ranking among 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs places Portland State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Portland State University

With 91% of applicants admitted, Portland State University prioritizes broad access, enrolling 13,619 students in Portland, OR.

See all programs and financial aid at Portland State 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

Compare this program → View all 136 schools offering Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology →

Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Other Schools

Northeastern University ($63,781) California State University-San Marcos ($57,682) California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ($57,538) MCPHS University ($51,942) University of Colorado Boulder ($50,474) California State University-Los Angeles ($50,428) University of Massachusetts-Boston ($50,352) University of Missouri-St Louis ($49,509)

Other Majors at Portland State University

Computer Engineering ($87,259) Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering ($82,853) Computer Science ($78,669) Mechanical Engineering ($73,079) Civil Engineering ($67,509) Physics ($62,749) Accounting and Related Services ($58,069) Finance and Financial Management Services ($52,859)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 38/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Portland State University?
At 38/100, 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 Portland State 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →