Chemistry at Bryan College-Dayton

Based on comparable chemistry programs in Tennessee, this degree appears positioned near the state median, with first-year earnings around $41,600—virtually identical to what graduates from UT-Knoxville and UT-Chattanooga earn. The estimated debt load of about $25,000 creates a manageable 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first year's salary. That's slightly higher than Tennessee's typical chemistry debt of $20,100, but the difference amounts to less than $5,000 total.

The larger question is whether Bryan College's distinctively Christian environment—and presumably smaller class sizes given the suppressed data—justifies similar or slightly higher costs compared to state university options. Similar Tennessee chemistry programs produce graduates earning between $37,000 and $42,500, suggesting the field offers relatively consistent entry-level outcomes regardless of institution. For students specifically seeking Bryan's faith-integrated approach to science education, the estimated debt burden isn't alarming. The chemistry degree itself aligns with national norms on both earnings and debt.

Your decision hinges on fit: if your child values Bryan's particular educational mission and the debt estimate holds true, this represents a reasonable investment for a chemistry career. However, UT schools offer comparable earnings trajectories with demonstrated outcomes—not estimates—and potentially lower debt, making them worth serious consideration if the religious framework isn't a priority.