Analysis
A molecular biology degree from Campbell appears positioned near the national baseline, with peer programs nationally suggesting first-year earnings around $38,000—modestly below what similar programs in North Carolina typically produce ($40,400). The estimated $25,500 in debt sits slightly above both national and state medians for this field, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67 that's manageable but not exceptional.
The challenge here is context: with 695 schools nationally offering biochemistry and molecular biology degrees, outcomes vary dramatically based on whether graduates pursue immediate employment, graduate school, or health professions paths. NC State's molecular biology grads earn $44,000 in their first year—about 16% more than what peer programs suggest for Campbell—though it's impossible to know whether that gap reflects differing graduate school rates, regional job markets, or student career choices. For students planning medical or graduate school, first-year earnings tell almost nothing about long-term value.
If your child intends to work immediately after graduation in the biochemistry field, these estimates suggest modest starting prospects that would make the debt serviceable but not comfortable. For pre-med or research-bound students, the relevant question isn't first-year earnings but whether Campbell provides adequate preparation for the next step—something these national estimates can't answer. Before committing, you need Campbell-specific data on graduate school placement rates and acceptance to professional programs.
Where Campbell University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,410 | $38,037* | — | $25,489* | — | |
| $8,895 | $44,101* | $76,667 | $23,028* | 0.52 | |
| $7,593 | $36,783* | — | $21,625* | 0.59 | |
| National Median | — | $38,036* | — | $23,000* | 0.60 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Microbiologists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Biological Technicians
Food Science Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
Bioinformatics Scientists
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Campbell University, approximately 33% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 136 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.