Biochemistry at Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
22 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
23
Optimistic
22
Base Case
26
Pessimistic
Earnings $25,819/yr (-32% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)
ROI 7.9x earnings multiple (3.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #131 of 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs

Program Analysis

The earnings data for ODU's Biochemistry program suggests its graduates often enter a regional job market that differs significantly from major biotech hubs. In the Hampton Roads area, opportunities may lean more towards healthcare support, public health, environmental science, or academic lab roles rather than high-paying pharmaceutical or pure R&D positions. As a large public university, the program likely prepares students for a broad array of scientific careers, and initial salaries can reflect entry-level roles in these diverse sectors. To maximize your potential, focus heavily on gaining practical experience through internships with local hospitals, research institutions like EVMS, or government agencies. Strong networking within the regional scientific community is vital. Given the field's evolving landscape and AI's increasing impact, consider how you might specialize or pursue advanced degrees to enhance your long-term career prospects and differentiate yourself.

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 $379K $388K $387K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 7.7x 7.9x 7.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 2.9x 3.0x 3.0x
Probability of Field Employment 58% 53% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 23 22 26

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$49,048
Out-of-state: $130,648 (3.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$56,680
-16% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,000
9.8 months of Year 1 earnings

About Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University has a 91% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 17,521 students in Norfolk, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Old Dominion 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 22/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Biochemistry at Old Dominion University?
At 22/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Biochemistry programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Biochemistry at Old Dominion University?
The 45% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Old Dominion University a good choice for Biochemistry despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Old Dominion University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →