Biochemistry at California State University-Fresno

Fresno, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
25 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
26
Optimistic
25
Base Case
29
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,380/yr (-30% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)
ROI 14.0x earnings multiple (5.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #119 of 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs

Program Analysis

While the core science is foundational, the financial outcomes for this program reflect a unique regional dynamic. Fresno isn't a major biotech hub, meaning local demand for highly specialized roles in pharmaceutical R&D or cutting-edge biophysics can be limited. Many graduates often find roles in clinical labs, agricultural biotech within the Central Valley, or move into related health professions, which typically have different salary trajectories than those in major industry centers. The high AI risk also suggests that many routine lab and data analysis tasks are becoming automated. This emphasizes the need for advanced skills. To truly leverage this degree for higher earning potential, you'll likely need to strategically pursue internships outside the immediate region in major biotech centers, or strongly consider graduate studies to specialize in research, computational biology, or other areas less susceptible to automation.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Biochemistry graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $383K $392K $390K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.7x 14.0x 14.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.1x 5.2x 5.2x
Probability of Field Employment 58% 53% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 26 25 29

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$27,920
Out-of-state: $75,440 (5.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$25,920
7% less than sticker · See by income

About California State University-Fresno

California State University-Fresno has a 96% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, one of the larger campuses at 21,070 students in Fresno, CA. With 56% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at California State University-Fresno →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Biochemists and biophysicists $103,650/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists $100,590/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Biochemistry at Other Schools

Other Majors at California State University-Fresno

Frequently Asked Questions

How does California State University-Fresno's Biochemistry program score?
This program scores 25/100 — on the lower end for Biochemistry. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Biochemistry to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Biochemistry careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 45% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Biochemistry earnings lower at California State University-Fresno?
Lower starting pay at California State University-Fresno may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →