Analysis
A biochemistry degree from Union College carries an estimated debt load of $26,000—roughly $3,000 above the state median—while peer programs in New York suggest first-year earnings around $36,800. That puts graduates at a 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio, slightly higher than ideal but not alarming for a science field that often requires graduate school. The concern is less about the debt burden and more about where this program sits competitively: similar programs at CUNY City College and SUNY Geneseo report significantly higher early earnings, with City College graduates earning nearly $7,400 more in their first year.
Union's appeal lies in its selectivity (44% admission rate, 1410 average SAT) and small-college environment, but those advantages don't appear to translate into standout career outcomes based on comparable New York biochemistry programs. With only 13% of students receiving Pell grants, this is primarily serving affluent families who may be less concerned about immediate return on investment. Still, if your child plans to work straight after graduation rather than pursue a PhD or medical school, the estimated earnings lag behind public alternatives that cost less and deliver more.
The path forward depends on graduate school plans. If medical school or a doctorate is the goal, Union's undergraduate experience may justify the premium. But for students entering the workforce immediately, state schools appear to offer better value based on peer outcomes in New York's competitive biochemistry landscape.
Where Union College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (62 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Union CollegeSchenectady | $66,456 | $36,823* | — | $26,000* | — |
 Vassar CollegePoughkeepsie | $67,805 | $45,599* | — | —* | — |
 CUNY City CollegeNew York | $7,340 | $44,175* | — | —* | — |
 Colgate UniversityHamilton | $67,024 | $44,089* | — | $15,350* | 0.35 |
 Binghamton UniversityVestal | $10,363 | $41,305* | $68,227 | $18,139* | 0.44 |
 SUNY College at GeneseoGeneseo | $8,966 | $37,206* | — | $22,986* | 0.62 |
| 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 Union College, approximately 13% 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 median of 10 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.