Chemistry at Gonzaga University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54 suggests manageable borrowing for a chemistry bachelor's degree, though both figures here come from peer institutions rather than Gonzaga's own graduates. With estimated first-year earnings around $46,400—matching the Washington state median—and debt near $25,000, this program appears positioned at the responsible end of the spectrum. Chemistry majors from comparable programs in Washington typically face monthly loan payments of roughly $280, which represents about 7% of gross income at this salary level.

What's worth noting is the variation among Washington chemistry programs. While some schools report first-year earnings approaching $49,000, others see graduates starting at $33,000—a $16,000 spread that matters significantly when managing five-figure debt. The estimated figures here place Gonzaga in the middle of this range, and the school's selectivity (SAT average of 1316) suggests reasonably well-prepared students who might compete effectively for entry-level lab positions or graduate programs.

The key uncertainty is whether Gonzaga's actual outcomes align with these state averages or deviate meaningfully. Given the private-school setting and relatively low Pell grant percentage, you're likely looking at a program serving students with some financial cushion. If your child is serious about chemistry—whether for industry work or as a pre-med or pre-PhD path—the estimated debt burden wouldn't be alarming, but confirming career placement rates would help clarify whether this particular program delivers on that projection.