Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at University of Minnesota-Duluth

The story here isn't the rough start—it's the remarkable rebound. UMN-Duluth biochemistry graduates earn just $31,150 in their first year, landing in the 20th percentile nationally. But four years out, salaries jump to $53,800, representing 73% growth that suggests many graduates are pursuing additional education or training that pays off substantially.

That first-year figure puts this program below the Minnesota median of $34,299, though the $20,500 debt load is actually lower than both state and national averages. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 looks manageable if you view year one as a transition period rather than a career baseline. However, if your child needs immediate earning power after graduation—perhaps to support themselves or start paying down loans right away—that initial $31,150 salary will be challenging, especially compared to the $37,830 that UMN-Twin Cities biochem graduates start at.

This program makes the most sense for students planning to pursue graduate school, medical school, or professional training after graduation. The low debt provides flexibility for that pathway, and the earnings trajectory suggests that's exactly what successful graduates are doing. But families counting on immediate financial independence after a bachelor's degree should know this isn't a direct route to strong entry-level salaries.