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College of the Ozarks delivers the lowest net cost for Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology students at $7,669, while Washington University in St Louis commands $22,117 despite its $62,982 sticker price. This $14,448 gap between the cheapest and most expensive options reflects Missouri's mix of work colleges, regional public institutions, and elite private schools. The state's growing life sciences sector, anchored by companies like Cerner and BJC HealthCare, creates demand for molecular biology expertise in healthcare technology and agricultural biotechnology. Graduation rates span from 38.3% at Missouri Southern State to 94.4% at Washington University, suggesting vastly different academic environments. Missouri's A+ Scholarship program helps reduce costs further by covering community college prerequisites before transfer.
17
Programs
$7,669 – $27,075
Net Price Range
$28,414
Avg. Program Earnings
61.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

17 Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,669 $21,290 61.3% 21.1%
2 $11,653 $8,400 38.3% 99.5%
3 $12,030 $9,470 68.4% 45.1%
4 $12,323 $13,440 56.9% 51.1%
5 $12,638 $9,800 39.8%
6 $15,336 $9,739 49.4% 71.3%
7 $16,602 $19,890 61.6% 41.0%
8 $19,889 $14,130 76.2% 79.1%
9 $21,523 $35,235 66.0% 63.4%
10 $22,080 $29,915 50.2% 97.0%
11 $22,117 $62,982 94.4% 11.8%
12 $23,165 $43,420 75.6% 66.5%
13 $24,051 $24,326 45.7%
14 $25,807 $33,122 48.2% 70.9%
15 $26,047 $27,166 71.5% 87.8%
16 $26,111 $34,188 57.5% 75.3%
17 $27,075 $53,244 79.8% 84.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes College of the Ozarks so affordable for biochemistry students?

College of the Ozarks requires all students to work on campus in exchange for tuition coverage, creating its $7,669 net cost despite a $21,290 sticker price. The school maintains highly selective 21.13% acceptance rates while achieving 61.30% graduation rates. Students work 15 hours weekly in campus jobs ranging from agriculture to laboratory assistance, directly supporting their scientific education.

How do Missouri public universities compare for biochemistry program costs?

Missouri Southern State University offers the lowest public option at $11,653 net cost with nearly open 99.48% admission, though graduation rates reach only 38.30%. Truman State provides better outcomes at $12,030 net cost with 68.40% graduation rates and more selective 45.05% acceptance. The University of Missouri system campuses range from $12,323 in St Louis to $19,889 in Columbia, reflecting different regional markets.

Is Washington University worth the higher cost for biochemistry majors?

Washington University graduates earn $21,508 early in their careers, actually lower than University of Missouri-St Louis graduates at $33,687, despite the $22,117 versus $12,323 net cost difference. However, Washington University achieves 94.40% graduation rates with highly selective 11.76% admission standards. The school's research opportunities and graduate school placement may justify costs for students pursuing advanced degrees.

Where do Missouri biochemistry graduates find employment opportunities?

Missouri's healthcare sector, led by BJC HealthCare and Cerner, actively recruits biochemistry graduates for medical technology and pharmaceutical development roles. Agricultural biotechnology companies benefit from the state's farming heritage, while defense contractors utilize molecular biology expertise. University of Missouri-Columbia graduates earning $30,047 often enter these regional markets, with many remaining in state due to strong industry connections.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.