Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
54 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
55
Optimistic
54
Base Case
52
Pessimistic
Earnings $45,066/yr (19% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)
ROI 11.5x earnings multiple (3.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #11 of 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs Top 10%

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 $719K $700K $621K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.8x 11.5x 10.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.9x 3.8x 3.4x
Probability of Field Employment 58% 53% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 55 54 52

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$61,060
Out-of-state: $184,168 (3.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$47,000
23% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,359
4.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$76,922
71% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $45,066 per year, Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology graduates from University of California-San Diego earn slightly above the $37,918 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 11.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 14% 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.

The median debt load of $17,359 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

At #11 of 136 programs, this Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.

The $45,066-to-$76,922 earnings arc over five years reflects a 71% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of California-San Diego

A 25% acceptance rate puts University of California-San Diego in competitive admissions territory, serving a student body of 33,787 in La Jolla, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of California-San Diego →

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 54/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at University of California-San Diego?
At 54/100, University of California-San Diego's Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology at University of California-San Diego?
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 →