Analysis
A biochemistry degree from University of Jamestown comes with projected first-year earnings around $38,000—squarely in line with what similar programs produce nationally. For a field often viewed as a springboard to graduate school or professional programs, these bachelor's-level salaries reflect the reality that many science graduates need additional training to access higher-paying positions. The estimated $25,000 in debt sits slightly above the national median for biochemistry programs, though it remains manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67.
The uncertainty here matters more than usual. With only three schools offering this major in North Dakota and no reported outcomes data from any of them, these estimates tell you what biochemistry graduates typically earn elsewhere, not what happens to Jamestown's specific students. If your child plans to stay in North Dakota—where life sciences opportunities may be limited compared to states with major biotech or pharmaceutical hubs—actual outcomes could differ significantly from these national averages.
The key question is whether your child intends to pursue medical school, graduate research, or professional programs where this degree serves as preparation. If so, the debt level is reasonable as a stepping stone. If they're planning to enter the workforce directly with just the bachelor's degree, understand that $38,000 represents the typical starting point for laboratory technicians and research assistants—not the six-figure careers often associated with "biochemistry" in the popular imagination.
Where University of Jamestown Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $24,820 | $38,037* | — | $25,489* | — | |
| $63,141 | $63,781* | $84,199 | $23,250* | 0.36 | |
| $7,739 | $57,682* | — | $16,666* | 0.29 | |
| $11,075 | $57,538* | $56,972 | $17,500* | 0.30 | |
| $38,850 | $51,942* | — | $27,000* | 0.52 | |
| $16,430 | $50,474* | $51,989 | $20,185* | 0.40 | |
| 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 University of Jamestown, approximately 26% 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 national median of 136 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.