Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona's biochemistry program presents a financial puzzle: decent national earnings, but surprisingly weak performance within Arizona itself. While graduates earn close to the national median and manage reasonable debt loads, this program ranks in just the 25th percentile among Arizona's four biochemistry programs—meaning three-quarters of similar in-state options produce better outcomes. Arizona State's comparable programs show graduates earning roughly $8,000 more annually, a significant gap that compounds over time.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $18,349, it's well below both state and national medians, and the 0.52 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically manage repayment even with below-median starting salaries. The 20% earnings growth to $42,855 by year four shows career progression, though that still trails what ASU graduates start with. For an admission rate of 86%, these outcomes suggest the program may not be maximizing students' earning potential in Arizona's job market.

For Arizona families, this is a straightforward calculation: if your child qualifies for U of A's biochemistry program, they likely qualify for ASU's stronger-performing equivalent. Unless location or specific research opportunities at U of A matter significantly, the data suggests looking first at programs where graduates command higher market value within the state.