Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at University of Houston
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
University of Houston's biochemistry program demonstrates something important that raw numbers miss: while first-year earnings of $34,648 fall below the national median, four-year earnings of $45,667 tell a different story. This 32% earnings growth trajectory outpaces most programs in this field, where early career stagnation is common. Among Texas biochemistry programs, this places UH above the state median—ranking in the 60th percentile despite serving a student population where 41% receive Pell grants.
The $21,000 in typical debt is actually below both state and national benchmarks, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 that improves significantly as graduates gain experience. By year four, graduates earn more than those from UT Austin initially, suggesting strong connections to Houston's massive medical and energy sectors that value this degree. The moderate sample size adds confidence these outcomes are representative.
For families evaluating biochemistry programs, UH offers an increasingly strong value proposition. Your child won't start with top-tier earnings, but the combination of below-average debt, above-state-median outcomes, and strong upward trajectory makes this worthwhile—especially if staying in Texas where Houston's biomedical hub provides clear career pathways. This is a program where patience pays off substantially.
Where University of Houston Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Houston graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Houston graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 35th percentile of all biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (38 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Houston | $34,648 | $45,667 | $21,000 | 0.61 |
| Texas State University | $44,824 | $49,636 | $22,750 | 0.51 |
| University of North Texas | $34,657 | $48,201 | $23,304 | 0.67 |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $33,846 | $61,992 | $19,000 | 0.56 |
| Texas Tech University | $32,027 | $59,443 | $25,000 | 0.78 |
| Baylor University | $30,496 | $47,493 | $27,000 | 0.89 |
| National Median | $38,036 | — | $23,000 | 0.60 |
Other Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas State University San Marcos | $11,450 | $44,824 | $22,750 |
| University of North Texas Denton | $11,164 | $34,657 | $23,304 |
| The University of Texas at Austin Austin | $11,678 | $33,846 | $19,000 |
| Texas Tech University Lubbock | $11,852 | $32,027 | $25,000 |
| Baylor University Waco | $54,844 | $30,496 | $27,000 |
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 University of Houston, approximately 41% 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 62 graduates with reported earnings and 65 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.