Cell Biology at Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
34 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
35
Optimistic
34
Base Case
33
Pessimistic
Earnings $20,721/yr (-45% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Large (70,200 openings/yr)
ROI 12.1x earnings multiple (5.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #32 of 39 Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences programs

Program Analysis

This program at Rutgers-New Brunswick presents a challenging financial outlook, largely because a bachelor's in Cell/Cellular Biology often serves as a foundational stepping stone rather than a direct launchpad into high-earning careers. Many graduates pursue further education—medical school, PhD programs in biomedical sciences, or other advanced degrees—before seeing significant salary growth. Without that advanced degree, you're likely competing for entry-level lab technician, research assistant, or clinical support roles, which are crucial but not typically high-paying, even within New Jersey's robust pharmaceutical and biotech sector. Companies like Johnson & Johnson or Merck recruit widely, but often for candidates with specialized skills or graduate-level qualifications in these fields. To mitigate this, prioritize extensive internships or co-ops while studying to gain practical, resume-building experience, and critically evaluate your post-graduation plans early.

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 $855K $834K $709K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.4x 12.1x 10.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.9x 5.8x 4.9x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 46% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 35 34 33

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$68,956
Out-of-state: $144,004 (5.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$94,076
-36% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,750
13.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$72,612
250% growth from Year 1

About Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Rutgers University-New Brunswick accepts 65% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, with 36,357 students enrolled in New Brunswick, NJ.

See all programs and financial aid at Rutgers University-New Brunswick →

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 34/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Cell Biology at Rutgers University-New Brunswick?
At 34/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Cell Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Cell Biology degree from Rutgers University-New Brunswick?
At $22,750 in median debt, graduates carry 13 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Cell Biology at Rutgers University-New Brunswick?
The 46% 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 Rutgers University-New Brunswick a good choice for Cell Biology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Rutgers University-New Brunswick'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 →