Chemistry at Biola University

Chemistry graduates from similar programs in California typically earn around $44,000 in their first year—right at the state median but trailing the top UC and CSU programs by $6,000 to $15,000. Based on comparable private universities nationally, students here likely carry about $25,000 in debt at graduation, which is notably higher than the $16,000 median for California chemistry programs overall. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first-year salary.

The math works, but barely. A $44,000 salary can support $25,000 in debt without severe strain, particularly for a chemistry degree that opens doors to graduate programs and industry positions. However, California's public universities are producing chemistry graduates with similar or better earnings and significantly less debt. The question becomes whether Biola's specific educational environment—its Christian emphasis and smaller community—justifies the premium, especially when the academic profile (1258 SAT, 60% admission rate) suggests solid but not exceptional selectivity.

If your child is committed to Biola's mission and culture, these estimated figures suggest the degree is financially viable. But if they're primarily interested in chemistry as a career launchpad, the state's public options appear to offer better value based on actual reported outcomes at those institutions.