Cell Biology at Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
49 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
50
Optimistic
49
Base Case
45
Pessimistic
Earnings $39,225/yr (5% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Large (70,200 openings/yr)
ROI 15.1x earnings multiple (5.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #9 of 39 Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

Western Washington University's Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences program stands out by effectively preparing students for the next steps in a demanding field. Its strength likely comes from dedicated faculty and a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on lab experience, crucial for medical school admissions or entry into biotech and pharmaceutical research. Many graduates progress to roles in the robust Pacific Northwest healthcare and life sciences industries, from Seattle's major hospitals and biotech firms to smaller regional labs. The career paths you see often require graduate degrees or significant experience, meaning your undergraduate degree here is an excellent springboard. Given the high AI risk in certain lab analysis or data interpretation roles, future-proofing your career means actively seeking interdisciplinary skills. Leverage your program's solid science foundation by adding computational biology, data science, or even strong communication skills. Seek out undergraduate research opportunities or internships; they are your best bet for gaining practical experience and networking.

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 $567K $563K $513K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.3x 15.1x 13.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.1x 5.0x 4.6x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 46% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 50 49 45

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$37,144
Out-of-state: $111,412 (5.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$74,720
-101% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$16,582
5.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$58,814
50% growth from Year 1

About Western Washington University

With 91% of applicants admitted, Western Washington University prioritizes broad access, enrolling 13,574 students in Bellingham, WA.

See all programs and financial aid at Western Washington 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

Cell Biology at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does Western Washington University's Cell Biology program score?
This program scores 49/100 — on the lower end for Cell Biology. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Cell Biology to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Cell Biology careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 46% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why does Western Washington University rank so high for Cell Biology?
The #9 ranking out of 39 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 →