Analysis
Towson's biochemistry graduates start behind comparable Maryland programs but experience remarkable salary growth, jumping from $36,842 to nearly $65,000 within four years—a 76% increase that suggests strong career trajectory despite the slow start. However, that first-year figure sits below the state median of $41,740, placing Towson in the 40th percentile among Maryland's 14 biochemistry programs. For context, University of Maryland-College Park graduates start at $48,721, while even UMBC's median first-year earnings of $30,275 suggests significant variability in Maryland outcomes.
The $22,000 median debt is reasonable and slightly below the state median, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60 in that first year. The real question for parents is whether their child will stick with a science career long enough to reach those year-four earnings. If your student plans to pursue graduate work in biochemistry or medicine—common paths for this major—the later-year earnings matter more than the initial entry-level figures. Those often reflect research assistant positions or lab tech roles that serve as stepping stones.
This program works best for students committed to a longer-term science career path. The admission accessibility (83% acceptance rate) makes it a viable option for solid B students interested in life sciences, but families should prepare for lean early years while their graduate builds experience.
Where Towson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Towson University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towson University | $36,842 | $64,819 | +76% |
| Northeastern University | $63,781 | $84,199 | +32% |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | $44,101 | $76,667 | +74% |
| University of Southern California | $34,468 | $72,935 | +112% |
| University of Maryland-Baltimore County | $30,275 | $52,755 | +74% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (14 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,306 | $36,842 | $64,819 | $22,000 | 0.60 | |
| $11,505 | $48,721 | — | $19,500 | 0.40 | |
| $39,708 | $46,637 | — | $26,750 | 0.57 | |
| $12,952 | $30,275 | $52,755 | $19,250 | 0.64 | |
| 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 Towson 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.
Sample Size: Based on 34 graduates with reported earnings and 43 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.