Molecular Physiology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Molecular Physiology explores the intricate mechanisms governing cellular function through the lens of biochemical interactions and dynamic physiological processes at the subcellular level. This program equips students with a deep understanding of how molecules regulate life-sustaining functions across biological systems, preparing them for advanced research and specialized careers in life sciences.
- Ion channels and transporters: Study of membrane proteins that regulate the flow of ions across cell membranes, essential for electrical signaling and cellular homeostasis.
- Molecular signaling pathways: Examination of how cells communicate through cascades of biochemical reactions, influencing growth, metabolism, and response to external stimuli.
- Endocrine control and regulation: Investigation into hormone-mediated signaling systems that coordinate physiological responses across tissues and organs.
- Genetic information transfer: Analysis of mechanisms underlying DNA replication, transcription, and translation, and their role in cellular function and adaptation.
- Homeostasis and molecular control systems: Focus on the regulatory networks that maintain internal stability in cells and organisms despite external fluctuations.
- Electrophysiology and sensory mechanisms: Exploration of electrical activity in excitable cells, including neurons and muscle cells, and the molecular basis of sensory perception.
- Protein synthesis: In-depth study of the processes involved in translating genetic code into functional proteins, including ribosomal function and post-translational modifications.
- Research methods and technologies: Training in advanced experimental techniques such as patch clamping, fluorescence imaging, molecular cloning, and high-throughput screening.
Molecular Physiology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Molecular Physiology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Molecular Physiology degrees, including Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists and Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary. 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 209,550 professionals.
National Average Salaries
Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists 19-1042 | $100,590 | $61,860 - $168,210 | 156,300 | $48.36 |
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1042 | $83,460 | $50,760 - $169,560 | 53,250 | N/A |
Molecular Physiology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $58,090 in Mississippi to $128,550 in California—a 121% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 209,550 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 Physiology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 8 institutions offering Molecular Physiology 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 Physiology is found at University of California (UCLA), Los Angeles (15 graduates), University of Michigan (U‑M), Ann Arbor (10 graduates), University of Alabama (UAB), Birmingham (9 graduates), Vanderbilt University (VU) (8 graduates), and Southern Illinois University, Carbondale (5 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 52 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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
University of California (UCLA) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
15 | Los Angeles, California | Public | ucla.edu |
University of Michigan (U‑M) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
10 | Ann Arbor, Michigan | Public | umich.edu |
University of Alabama (UAB) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
9 | Birmingham, Alabama | Public | uab.edu |
Vanderbilt University (VU) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
8 | Nashville, Tennessee | Private | vanderbilt.edu |
Southern Illinois University |
Postbac Cert.
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
5 | Carbondale, Illinois | Public | siu.edu |
Michigan State University (MSU) |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
2 | East Lansing, Michigan | Public | msu.edu |
Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
2 | Houston, Texas | Private | bcm.edu |
West Virginia University (WVU) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
1 | Morgantown, West Virginia | Public | wvu.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Molecular Physiology programs
How much can I earn with a Molecular Physiology degree?
Salaries for Molecular Physiology graduates vary by role and location. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists earn a median of $100,590 annually, while Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary earn around $83,460. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $128,550 compared to $58,090 in Mississippi. Approximately 209,550 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 Physiology programs?
Currently 8 accredited institutions offer Molecular Physiology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of California (UCLA), Los Angeles (15 graduates), University of Michigan (U‑M), Ann Arbor (10 graduates), and University of Alabama (UAB), Birmingham (9 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 Physiology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 30 in 2010 to 52 in 2023-24. This represents a 73% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, 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 Physiology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists, Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary, . Related occupations employ approximately 209,550 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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