Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Clemson University

Clemson's biochemistry program produces first-year earnings of just $28,120—dramatically below the $38,036 national median and landing in the 5th percentile nationally. For a selective university drawing students with 1340+ SATs, this represents a significant underperformance, especially when considering these are graduates from one of South Carolina's flagship institutions.

The state context offers little comfort. While Clemson ranks in the 60th percentile among South Carolina's biochemistry programs, that's because the state's median sits at just $25,942—among the lowest in the country. Even USC Columbia, the state's other flagship, sees similar struggles at $23,763. The debt load of $22,875 falls right at national norms, creating a 0.81 debt-to-earnings ratio that means graduates owe nearly a full year's salary.

For families considering this program, the reality is stark: biochemistry graduates from Clemson face several years of financial constraint after graduation. These low earnings typically reflect graduates pursuing lab technician roles or research assistant positions while waiting for graduate school acceptances. If your student isn't planning on medical school, a PhD program, or another advanced degree that will substantially increase earning potential, this investment doesn't make financial sense. The four-year degree alone won't provide the income needed to justify even modest debt levels.