Biochemistry at University of Colorado Boulder

Boulder, CO · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
53 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
54
Optimistic
53
Base Case
50
Pessimistic
Earnings $50,474/yr (33% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)
ROI 9.5x earnings multiple (3.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #16 of 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

The strong earnings from CU Boulder's program reflect its position within a vibrant regional biotech and life sciences ecosystem. The Denver-Boulder corridor boasts significant R&D investment and a concentration of companies—from established pharmaceutical and diagnostics firms to innovative startups and government labs like NREL or those at the Anschutz Medical Campus. This creates a robust demand for graduates skilled in complex experimental design, data analysis, and advanced scientific principles, often leading to roles in product development or specialized research. While some analytical tasks in the field face increasing AI integration, the program’s emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving prepares you for roles requiring human oversight and strategic leadership. Focus on securing extensive research experience and interdisciplinary internships to position yourself for higher-level scientific management or advanced academic pursuits.

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 $636K $624K $564K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 9.7x 9.5x 8.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.8x 3.7x 3.4x
Probability of Field Employment 58% 53% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 54 53 50

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$65,720
Out-of-state: $167,772 (3.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$85,920
-31% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,487
4.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$69,313
37% growth from Year 1

About University of Colorado Boulder

A 83% acceptance rate means University of Colorado Boulder is accessible to most applicants, with 31,578 students enrolled in Boulder, CO.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Colorado Boulder →

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does University of Colorado Boulder's Biochemistry program score?
This program scores 53/100, reflecting respectable but not exceptional financial outcomes for Biochemistry graduates.
How vulnerable is Biochemistry to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Biochemistry careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 45% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why does University of Colorado Boulder rank so high for Biochemistry?
The #16 ranking out of 136 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →