Chemistry at Earlham College

Based on comparable chemistry programs in Indiana, Earlham's graduates can expect starting salaries around $42,580—essentially matching both the state and national median for bachelor's-level chemistry majors. The estimated debt load of roughly $25,000 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59, meaning graduates would owe about seven months of their first year's salary. This falls right in line with what chemistry majors typically face nationwide.

What's worth noting is how Earlham compares to Indiana's larger research universities. Purdue leads the state at $47,213 in first-year earnings, but peer programs suggest Earlham's outcomes cluster with IU-Bloomington and Ball State rather than trailing significantly behind. For a small liberal arts college with a 74% admission rate, keeping pace with the state's flagship programs is a reasonable showing. The chemistry degree appears to deliver fairly consistent value across Indiana institutions, likely because employers care more about the credential and lab skills than the institutional prestige.

The caveat: these figures are derived from similar Indiana programs, not Earlham's own graduates, so there's inherent uncertainty. Still, the estimated debt burden is modest enough that even if actual earnings run somewhat lower, graduates shouldn't face financial strain. Chemistry majors generally have clear career pathways, and the numbers suggest this program won't leave your child overextended.