Physics at Drexel University

Physics programs in Pennsylvania typically produce first-year earnings around $68,000—a figure that makes the estimated $47,670 for Drexel's program harder to justify, particularly when the median debt sits at $30,847. That debt level actually ranks favorably in the 5th percentile nationally for physics programs, meaning it's lower than 95% of comparable programs. But the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65 still translates to roughly seven months of gross income needed to cover what graduates owe, assuming similar programs produce comparable outcomes.

The gap between Pennsylvania's typical physics earnings and the national estimate used here is substantial—about $20,000 annually. If Drexel's graduates track closer to state norms (which isn't certain without reported data), the financial picture improves significantly. But if they align with the national median, families are looking at a physics degree that carries above-average debt relative to first-year earning power, even if that debt is modest by broader standards.

Given Drexel's co-op program reputation, actual earnings could exceed these estimates. However, parents should confirm recent graduate outcomes directly with the department before committing, as the uncertainty here matters when comparing against Pennsylvania programs with demonstrated higher earnings and similar debt loads.