Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

In Wisconsin, biochemistry programs range widely in outcomes, but peer programs suggest UW-La Crosse's graduates land near the middle of the pack. Based on three comparable programs in the state, first-year earnings hover around $44,074—matching the state median and sitting right at the 75th percentile nationally. That's a stronger showing than the typical biochemistry graduate nationwide, where the median first-year salary is about $38,000. Debt of $21,373 is slightly below both state and national medians for the major, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48.

What makes this picture encouraging is the combination: estimated earnings that outpace the national norm by about $6,000 while borrowing modestly less than peers. The state's top programs—UW-Madison and UW-Stevens Point—report first-year earnings in the $44,000-$46,000 range, suggesting UW-La Crosse sits competitively within Wisconsin's biochemistry landscape. A 73% admission rate means this isn't an ultra-selective program, yet outcomes based on peer data suggest graduates aren't disadvantaged in the job market.

The key limitation is that these figures reflect what happens at similar programs, not necessarily this specific cohort. If your child is serious about biochemistry and prefers a mid-sized public university, the estimated financial picture here is manageable—debt you could reasonably tackle on a starting salary typical for this field in Wisconsin.