Molecular Genetics: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Molecular genetics explores the fundamental mechanisms by which genetic information is stored, transmitted, and expressed across a wide range of organisms—from single-celled bacteria to complex viral systems and higher eukaryotes. This rigorous academic discipline investigates the molecular underpinnings of heredity, gene function, and cellular regulation, preparing students for advanced research and innovation in biotechnology, medicine, and life sciences.
- Genetic Replication: Examines the precise processes by which DNA and RNA are copied during cell division and viral infection, ensuring accurate transmission of genetic material.
- Gene Expression and Regulation: Focuses on how genes are turned on or off through transcriptional and post-transcriptional controls, shaping cellular identity and function.
- Genetic Transfer Mechanisms: Studies horizontal gene transfer in prokaryotes, viral integration, and recombination events that drive genetic diversity and evolution.
- Nucleic Acid Structure and Stability: Investigates the three-dimensional architecture of DNA and RNA, including how molecular conformations influence function and susceptibility to damage.
- Protein-Gene Interactions: Explores the dynamic relationships between proteins and genetic material, including transcription factors, polymerases, and chromatin modifiers.
- Neurogenetics: Applies molecular genetic principles to understand the genetic basis of nervous system development, function, and disorders.
Molecular Genetics Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Molecular Genetics Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Molecular Genetics degrees, including Natural Sciences Managers, Genetic Counselors and Biological Scientists, All Other. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 217,340 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers 11-9121 | $161,180 | $79,830 - $239,200 | 100,870 | $77.49 |
| Genetic Counselors 29-9092 | $98,910 | $78,680 - $137,780 | 3,510 | $47.55 |
| Biological Scientists, All Other 19-1029 | $93,330 | $54,500 - $159,780 | 59,710 | $44.87 |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1042 | $83,460 | $50,760 - $169,560 | 53,250 | N/A |
Molecular Genetics Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $75,280 in Louisiana to $144,218 in California—a 92% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 217,340 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Molecular Genetics by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 15 institutions offering Molecular Genetics programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Molecular Genetics is found at Michigan State University (MSU) (82 graduates), Ohio State University, Main Campus (71 graduates), Rutgers University, New Brunswick (51 graduates), Washington University in St Louis (WashU) (16 graduates), and Duke University (15 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 278 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan State University (MSU) |
Bachelor's
|
82 | East Lansing, Michigan | Public | msu.edu |
| Ohio State University |
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
71 | Columbus, Ohio | Public | osu.edu |
| Rutgers University |
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
51 | New Brunswick, New Jersey | Public | newbrunswick.rutgers.edu |
| Washington University in St Louis (WashU) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
16 | Saint Louis, Missouri | Private | wustl.edu |
| Duke University |
Doctorate (Research)
|
15 | Durham, North Carolina | Private | duke.edu |
| University of Chicago (UChicago) |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
11 | Chicago, Illinois | Private | uchicago.edu |
| Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
9 | Houston, Texas | Private | bcm.edu |
| SUNY |
Bachelor's
|
7 | Fredonia, New York | Public | fredonia.edu |
| Western Kentucky University (WKU) |
Bachelor's
|
4 | Bowling Green, Kentucky | Public | wku.edu |
| Black Hills State University (BHSU) |
Master's
|
3 | Spearfish, South Dakota | Public | bhsu.edu |
| Michigan Technological University (MTU) |
Master's
|
2 | Houghton, Michigan | Public | mtu.edu |
| Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
2 | Portland, Oregon | Public | ohsu.edu |
| Cedar Crest College |
Bachelor's
|
2 | Allentown, Pennsylvania | Private | cedarcrest.edu |
| University of Pittsburgh |
Doctorate (Research)
|
2 | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | Public | pitt.edu |
| Wake Forest University (WFC) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
1 | Winston-Salem, North Carolina | Private | wfu.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Molecular Genetics programs
How much can I earn with a Molecular Genetics degree?
Salaries for Molecular Genetics graduates vary by role and location. Natural Sciences Managers earn a median of $161,180 annually, while Genetic Counselors earn around $98,910. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $144,218 compared to $75,280 in Louisiana. Approximately 217,340 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Molecular Genetics programs?
Currently 15 accredited institutions offer Molecular Genetics degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Michigan State University (MSU) (82 graduates), Ohio State University, Main Campus (71 graduates), and Rutgers University, New Brunswick (51 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Molecular Genetics growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 284 in 2010 to a peak of 336 in 2020, before declining slightly to 278 in 2023-24. This represents a 2% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Molecular Genetics degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Natural Sciences Managers, Genetic Counselors, and Biological Scientists, All Other. Related occupations employ approximately 217,340 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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