Skip to main content
California State University-Fullerton delivers cellular biology training at just $5,646 net cost, making it nearly three times cheaper than UC Santa Cruz's $16,607 price tag. This cost spread across 12 programs reflects California's public university system structure, where Cal State schools focus on undergraduate education while UC campuses emphasize research. California's booming biotech sector, centered in the Bay Area and San Diego, creates strong demand for cellular biology graduates. The state houses major pharmaceutical companies like Gilead Sciences and Genentech, plus countless biotech startups seeking specialists in cellular mechanisms and anatomical sciences.
12
Programs
$5,646 – $16,607
Net Price Range
$33,090
Avg. Program Earnings
75.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $5,646 $7,073 69.2% 66.7%
2 $7,599 $7,095 56.2% 91.2%
3 $10,550 $7,739 54.2% 95.2%
4 $11,750 $15,265 87.6% 23.7%
5 $12,840 $14,237 86.0% 21.2%
6 $12,882 $7,424 50.1% 94.2%
7 $13,707 $14,170 76.6% 68.7%
8 $13,825 $14,965 85.3% 25.9%
9 $14,013 $13,747 92.7% 8.6%
10 $14,979 $14,850 92.9% 11.3%
11 $15,288 $15,247 85.1% 37.3%
12 $16,607 $14,560 74.5% 46.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What earnings can cellular biology graduates expect in California?

California State University-Northridge graduates earn $41,565 annually, the highest among these programs. However, UC Santa Barbara graduates start at just $25,194 despite the school's higher costs. The wide earnings range of $24,140 to $41,565 reflects different career paths and regional salary variations across California.

How competitive are UC cellular biology programs compared to Cal State schools?

UCLA accepts only 8.57% of applicants while maintaining a 92.7% graduation rate, making it extremely selective. In contrast, Cal State Northridge accepts 91.23% of students with a 56.2% graduation rate. UC schools typically require higher test scores and GPAs but offer stronger research opportunities.

Is student debt manageable for cellular biology majors in California?

Most graduates carry $12,000 to $19,462 in debt, with UC Berkeley students owing the least at $13,450. Cal Grant funding helps many California residents avoid excessive borrowing. The debt-to-earnings ratio remains reasonable given the state's biotech job market.

Where do the most affordable cellular biology programs offer the best value?

Cal State Fullerton provides strong value at $5,646 net cost with a 69.2% graduation rate. UC San Diego costs $11,750 but delivers an 87.6% graduation rate, suggesting stronger academic support. Both options position students well for California's life sciences industry.

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