Cell Biology at Duke University

Durham, NC · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
31 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
32
Optimistic
31
Base Case
30
Pessimistic
Earnings $30,154/yr (-19% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Large (70,200 openings/yr)
ROI 3.3x earnings multiple
Ranked #35 of 39 Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences programs

Program Analysis

A Duke degree in Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences signals a rigorous scientific foundation, often positioning you for competitive paths beyond a bachelor's. The initial earnings trajectory reflects that many graduates pursue advanced degrees in medicine or research, where immediate post-undergrad salaries are typically lower or non-existent during further schooling. You're entering a field deeply integrated with the world-class Duke Health system and the vibrant Research Triangle Park biotech ecosystem, offering unparalleled research and industry exposure through internships at companies like Biogen or within university labs. While the AI risk is noted as high, this highlights the evolving nature of biological research, demanding adaptability and a focus on computational skills alongside traditional wet lab techniques. Your Duke education provides a potent springboard into diverse roles, from R&D in pharmaceuticals to academic research, but understand that significant financial returns often materialize after securing a master's, PhD, or MD. Plan your academic and career strategy with this long-term vision in mind, actively leveraging Duke's extensive research opportunities and alumni network from day one.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $885K $862K $729K
Earnings Multiple 3.4x 3.3x 2.8x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 46% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 32 31 30

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$263,220
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$137,816
48% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$12,000
4.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$86,703
188% growth from Year 1

About Duke University

Duke University admits 7% of applicants — among the most selective institutions in the country, enrolling 6,417 students in Durham, NC. After financial aid, the average student pays $137,816 over four years — 48% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Duke University →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr
Biochemists and biophysicists $103,650/yr
View all 9 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Cell Biology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Duke University

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Cell Biology at Duke University?
A score of 31/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Cell Biology. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Will AI replace Cell Biology careers?
With 46% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $729,309 in decade earnings vs $885,247 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Can you still earn well with Cell Biology from Duke University?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →