Biochemistry at Iowa State University

Ames, IA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
55 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
56
Optimistic
55
Base Case
53
Pessimistic
Earnings $43,520/yr (15% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)
ROI 15.5x earnings multiple (5.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #9 of 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

Iowa State's Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology program stands out nationally, reflecting its robust research infrastructure and strong ties to critical sectors. This performance is largely driven by the university’s deep expertise in agricultural and biological sciences, preparing graduates for specialized roles in the Midwest's significant agriscience and food technology industries, alongside traditional medical research paths. You'll find graduates excelling in R&D at major companies like Corteva Agriscience, or pursuing advanced degrees for leadership roles in clinical and academic research. The program emphasizes hands-on, analytical skills, crucial as routine lab tasks become automated. To maximize your potential, actively pursue research opportunities and internships, as these experiences are vital for securing roles demanding complex problem-solving and strategic thinking in this evolving field.

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 $664K $650K $584K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.8x 15.5x 13.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.0x 5.9x 5.3x
Probability of Field Employment 58% 53% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 56 55 53

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$41,988
Out-of-state: $110,732 (5.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$72,660
-73% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,950
5.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$70,190
61% growth from Year 1

About Iowa State University

With 89% of applicants admitted, Iowa State University prioritizes broad access, with 25,033 students enrolled in Ames, IA.

See all programs and financial aid at Iowa State University →

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

Compare Biochemistry

Other Majors at Iowa State University

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Biochemistry at Iowa State University?
A score of 55/100 puts this program in competitive territory — solid outcomes, though not at the top of the Biochemistry field.
Will AI replace Biochemistry careers?
With 45% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $583,601 in decade earnings vs $664,245 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →