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Cheapest Biological and Biomedical Sciences Colleges in California

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

California State University-Bakersfield offers the state's most affordable Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other program at just $5,825 annually, while Scripps College charges $38,802 for similar training. This dramatic cost variation reflects the state's mix of public and private options serving students bound for California's $200 billion life sciences sector. Nine programs span from the Central Valley to elite liberal arts colleges, with graduation rates ranging from 49% to 87% across institutions that prepare students for biotech careers in regions like Silicon Valley and San Diego.
9
Programs
$5,825 – $38,802
Net Price Range
$27,440
Avg. Program Earnings
67.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $5,825 $7,696 49.3% 86.6%
2 $6,480 $6,980 54.8% 95.4%
3 $13,741 $7,992 64.7% 76.7%
4 $14,317 $35,558 55.9% 75.0%
5 $16,607 $14,560 74.5% 46.9%
6 $19,798 $43,600 64.4% 87.0%
7 $31,198 $56,134 69.0% 87.9%
8 $31,663 $62,692 83.2% 18.4%
9 $38,802 $63,434 87.1% 27.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Public universities like CSU-Bakersfield charge $5,825 compared to elite private colleges like Scripps at $38,802. The Cal Grant program covers tuition at public institutions for qualifying California residents, making state universities significantly more accessible than private alternatives.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in this field?

Higher-priced programs generally show better completion rates, with Scripps College achieving 87% graduation at $38,802 annually. However, San Jose State University demonstrates that affordable education can succeed, maintaining a 65% graduation rate while charging just $13,741 net price.

Does the consistent $27,440 earnings figure reflect realistic career expectations?

This entry-level salary represents starting positions in research or lab technician roles across California's biotech industry. Many graduates pursue additional education or specialized certifications that lead to higher-paying positions in the state's life sciences companies.

More Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other Rankings

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