Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Northeastern University Oakland

A molecular biology degree from this selective Oakland campus shows an unusual trajectory: first-year earnings estimated around $42,000 based on comparable California programs, then nearly doubling to $84,000 by year four. That sharp upward curve suggests graduates likely pursue post-graduation training—internships, research positions, or gap years before professional school—that initially suppresses earnings but later pays dividends. The $23,250 debt load sits right at the national median but runs higher than California's typical $17,200, though the 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable if that early-career estimate holds.

The real question is whether your student plans to stop at the bachelor's level or continue into graduate, medical, or professional programs. If they're headed to additional schooling, those year-four earnings become less relevant than the debt they're carrying forward. Compare this to Cal Poly SLO or UC Santa Barbara, where reported first-year earnings exceed $57,000 and $49,000 respectively—those programs appear to position graduates for immediate laboratory or industry roles rather than extended training pathways.

For families banking on immediate post-graduation income, request clarity from Northeastern about career outcomes: what percentage of graduates enter the workforce versus pursue advanced degrees? That distinction matters enormously when first-year figures are estimates rather than this campus's actual track record.