Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Bellevue College

Based on comparable biochemistry programs in Washington, Bellevue College's estimated first-year earnings of $40,505 land right at the state median—a respectable starting point for a life sciences degree. The estimated debt load of $17,878 is actually below the national median of $23,000 for this field, producing a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44. This suggests graduates could reasonably pay off their loans within a year or two of strategic budgeting, which is notably better than many bachelor's programs nationally.

The catch: these are educated guesses based on peer programs, not actual outcomes from Bellevue College graduates. The small graduate cohort means we're looking at what similar programs typically produce rather than what this specific program delivers. Washington State University's biochemistry graduates earn about $6,000 more in their first year according to reported data, which matters if your child is weighing options between schools. The lower debt estimate at Bellevue could offset some of that earnings gap, but without actual graduate data, you're making decisions with incomplete information.

If your child is committed to biochemistry and Bellevue College offers advantages like proximity to home or a smoother transfer pathway, the estimated numbers don't raise red flags. But recognize that many biochemistry graduates pursue additional education—medical school, graduate programs—where first-year earnings become less relevant than the foundation for future credentials. The relatively low debt estimate makes Bellevue a potentially smart launching pad for further study.