Cell Biology at San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
58 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
59
Optimistic
58
Base Case
54
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,794/yr (9% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Large (70,200 openings/yr)
ROI 23.7x earnings multiple (9.1x out-of-state)
Ranked #3 of 39 Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

Your outcomes in Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences from San Francisco State are significantly shaped by its prime location. The Bay Area's unparalleled concentration of biotechnology firms, research institutions like UCSF and Stanford, and pharmaceutical companies creates a deep and competitive talent pool. This environment provides excellent opportunities for graduates to enter roles in R&D labs, clinical research, or even move into specialized sales or technical support within the life sciences industry. Many will start in lab technician or research assistant roles, gaining critical hands-on experience that paves the way for advanced positions or further study. While some routine lab tasks may see increased automation, your human analytical and problem-solving skills remain invaluable. To capitalize on this vibrant ecosystem, actively seek internships and networking opportunities throughout your degree; they are your most direct pipeline to these local employers.

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 $717K $704K $615K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 24.2x 23.7x 20.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 9.3x 9.1x 8.0x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 46% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 59 58 54

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$29,696
Out-of-state: $77,216 (9.1x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$51,528
-74% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,000
5.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$78,780
93% growth from Year 1

About San Francisco State University

With 96% of applicants admitted, San Francisco State University prioritizes broad access, serving a student body of 20,033 in San Francisco, CA. 41% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at San Francisco State 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Cell Biology at San Francisco State University?
A score of 58/100 puts this program in competitive territory — solid outcomes, though not at the top of the Cell Biology field.
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 $615,188 in decade earnings vs $717,286 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →