Biochemistry at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
31 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
32
Optimistic
31
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,151/yr (-31% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Large (45,200 openings/yr)
ROI 10.3x earnings multiple (3.1x out-of-state)
Ranked #109 of 136 Biochemistry & Biophysics and Molecular Biology programs

Program Analysis

Don't let initial earnings data for this rigorous program overshadow the significant long-term potential. At an elite research institution like Michigan, many biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology graduates pursue advanced degrees immediately after their bachelor's—PhDs, MDs, or dual programs—which naturally delays high-earning entry into the workforce. Your foundational training here is exceptional preparation for competitive graduate programs and impactful careers in academia, biotech, or pharmaceuticals. The Ann Arbor area itself offers a growing ecosystem of research and development firms where your skills will be highly valued as you gain experience. While automation poses a risk to routine lab tasks, your UMich degree equips you with the critical thinking to adapt and lead in evolving scientific fields. Focus on leveraging the extensive research opportunities available to specialize 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 $733K $713K $631K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.6x 10.3x 9.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.2x 3.1x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 58% 53% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 32 31 35

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$68,912
Out-of-state: $232,288 (3.1x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,328
14% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,095
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$65,675
151% growth from Year 1

About University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor accepts 18% of applicants — selective, though not ultra-competitive, one of the larger campuses at 33,488 students in Ann Arbor, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor →

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

How does University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Biochemistry program score?
This program scores 31/100 — on the lower end for Biochemistry. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
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 are Biochemistry earnings lower at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Lower starting pay at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →